Aims and Hypothesis

Question 1

Hypothesis

Answer 1

A precise, testable statement of what the researcher(s) predict will be the outcome of the study. There is a specific reference to the IV and DV relationship.

Question 2

Research aim/question

Answer 2

States the intent of the study in general terms.

Question 3

The convention of the two forms of hypothesis writing

Answer 3

Null Hypothesis and Alternative Hypothesis

Question 4

Null Hypothesis

Answer 4

No significant difference in the DV due to the manipulation of the IV. Thus, no relationship between the two variables being studied (one variable does no affect the other).

Question 5

Does the Null Hypothesis support the theory being investigated?

Answer 5

No: it states that the results are due to chance.

Question 6

Alternative Hypothesis

Answer 6

Predicts a statistically significant effect on an IV on a DV; significant relationship between the two variables.

Question 7

“to investigate the effect of having a training partner on athlete’s motivation levels.” What would be an alternative hypothesis for this?

Answer 7

There will be a significant difference in motivation levels with athletes who have a training partner than athletes without.

Question 8

One-tailed (directional) hypothesis

Answer 8

Predicts the nature of the effect of the IV on the DV. It predicts in which direction the change will take place (i.e greater, smaller, less, more). E.g adults will recall more words than children.

Question 9

Two- tailed (non-directional) hypothesis

Answer 9

Predicts that the IV will have an effect on the DV, but the direction of the effect is not specified: it just states that there will be a difference. E.g there will be a difference in how many words are correctly recalled by children and adults.

Question 10

Can a hypothesis be proven?

Answer 10

A hypothesis can be rejected or supported, but it can NEVER be proven correct. We must AVOID any reference to results proving a theory as it implies 100% certainty. There is always a chance that evidence may exist which could REFUTE a theory.

Question 11

How would you write a hypothesis?

Answer 11

1) Identify key variables in the study: IV, DV and control variables.
2) Operationalization of variables - make the variables physically measurable and testable.
3) Direction of prediction (if there is evidence to support a specific effect on the IV and DV in the literature, use a one-tailed hypothesis).
4) Write your hypothesis - should be concise and comprises of clear and simple language.

Question 12

In terms of studying aggression, how would you operationalize your variables?

Answer 12

Measure aggression through the number of punches given by a participant.