Question
a. Enumerate four criteria for evaluating research hypotheses. b. i. Differentiate between null and alternative hypotheses. ii. State two examples each of null and alternative hypotheses. iii. State two sources of research problems.
Answer
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Rhiannon
Master · Tutor for 5 years
Answer
a. The four criteria for evaluating research hypotheses are: Testability, Specificity, Consistency, and Simplicity.b. i. A null hypothesis is a statement that proposes no statistical relationship or a status quo in an observed phenomenon. An alternative hypothesis is a statement that indicates the existence of a statistically significant relationship between two or more variables.ii. Null hypothesis examples: There is no relationship between smoking and lung cancer. The hiring practices of the company do not discriminate based on the gender of the applicant. Alternative hypothesis examples: Intensive studying improves academic performances. Regular exercise reduces heart disease.iii. Literature review and Discussions with professionals.
Explanation
a. Evaluating the significant set standard during a scientific investigation can be via several criteria. Testability refers to the principle that hypothesis can be tested or falsifiable through observations made by the five sense organs. Specificity entails that specific variables are identified and positioned rightfully. Consistency must be noticed in the hypothesis, implying no presence of inclusion prejudice or must be without conflicts with accepted fact. Finally, simplicity refers to the simplicity and clarity of the reverberating principle for empirical use.b. i. The null hypothesis is the hypothesis to be tested for possible rejection under the supposition that it is true. It's a statement reflecting a condition of no effect or no change, the status quo, or complete randomness. The alternative hypothesis, on the other hand, is considered when the data does not provide enough evidence to accept the null hypothesis. It is the opposite of the null or it purity posits the possibility of an effect or change.ii. An example of a null hypothesis could be the proposition that there is no relationship between people smoking and contracting lung cancer. Or the statement that gender has no tangible influence on securing a job offer in a certain company for instance. On the other hand, examples of an alternative hypothesis might include the postulation that intensive studying directly correlates with high academic performance, or exercise on a continual basis reduces the risk been diagnosed with heart diseases respectively. iii. When elaborating on the potential sources of research problems, a literature review is a top spot as it helps deeply look into previously done work. It assists in recognizing gaps in the existing body of knowledge. Additionally, the research problems can instigate through mutual interactions or brainstorms with field experts or enthusiasts.