Research and The Problem for Investigation
RESEARCH ASSUMPTION
In academic writing, an assumption is regarded as unexamined belief; that is
what we are considering without realizing it.
Differences Between an Assumption and a Hypothesis
1. Unlike an assumption, the researcher consciously works towards proving the
validity of the hypothesis used for the research.
2.The research work begins based on an assumption, whereas a theory is a goal the
study aims to achieve.
Similarities Between Assumption and Hypothesis
1. Both assumption and hypothesis can be proved and disapproved during the
course of the research.
2. Like hypothesis, an assumption must always be affirmative, never a question.
The Importance of Assumptions in Research
Assumptions are the foundation of any credible and valid research work. In
fact, without assumptions, research problems cannot be found as they determine the
conclusions that would be gotten from your research work.
SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS
Scope
This refers to the parameters under which the study will be operating. The problem
you seek to resolve will fit within certain parameters. Think of the scope as the domain of
your research - what’s in the domain and what is not.
Limitations
These are matters and occurrences that arise in a study which are out of the
researcher’s control. They limit the extensity to which a study can go, and sometimes affect
the end result and conclusions that can be drawn.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Definition of terms is usually an annex to a work, (book, research paper, pamphlet,
etc.) either at the beginning or more likely near the end with acronyms, jargoon, credits, etc.
This is an important part of Research Paper or report is that in which the key or important
Research and The Problem for Investigation
terms in the study are clearly defined.
Types of Definition
CONCEPTUAL DEFINITION - Is the universal meaning that is attributed to a word or group of
words and which is understood by many people. The usual source of conceptual definition is
the Dictionary
OPERATIONAL DEFINITION - is the meaning of the concept or term as used in a particular
study. Unlike conceptual definition, it is stated in concrete term and that it allows
measurement.
THE VARIABLE
In simple terms, a variable represents a measurable attribute that changes or
varies across the experiment whether comparing results between multiple groups,
multiple people or even when using a single person in an experiment conducted over
time.
Variables represent the measurable traits that can change over the course of
a scientific experiment.
Types of Variable
● Dependent Variable
The variable that depends on other factors that are measured. These
variables are expected to change as a result of an experimental manipulation of the
independent variable or variables. It is the presumed effect.
● Independent Variable
The variable that is stable and unaffected by the other variables you are trying
to measure. It refers to the condition of an experiment that is systematically
manipulated by the investigator. It is the presumed cause.
● Intervening Variable
is a hypothetical variable used to explain causal links between other variables.
Intervening variables cannot be observed in an experiment (that’s why they are
hypothetical).
● Moderator Variable
A moderator variable, commonly denoted as just M, is a third variable that
affects the strength of the relationship between a dependent and independent
variable
● Constant or Controlled Variable
A control variable is anything that is held constant or limited in a research
Research and The Problem for Investigation
study. It’s a variable that is not of interest to the study’s aims, but is controlled
because it could influence the outcomes.
● Constant or Controlled Variable
A control variable is anything that is held constant or limited in a research
study. It’s a variable that is not of interest to the study’s aims, but is controlled
because it could influence the outcomes.
