Module 5: Formulating Hypothesis

Hypothesis

is an explanation of a relationship between two or more variables

Hypothesis

is the thesis, or main idea of an experiment

non-experimental hypothesis

predicts how variables (events, traits, or behaviors) might be correlated, but not causally related.

1. Correlational

2. Ex-post Facto'

3. Non-equivalent groups

4. Longitudinal

5. Cross-sectional

Types of Design : Hypothesis

Correlational

This design explores the relationship between two variables without manipulating either.

Ex-post facto

This design examines the effects of a pre-existing variable on an outcome.

Non-equivalent groups

This design compares two pre-existing groups without random assignment.

Longitudinal

This design follows the same group of participants over time to observe changes.

Cross-sectional

This design compares different groups at a single point in time.

Experimental hypothesis

tentative explanation of an event or a behavior

Experimental hypothesis

It is a statement that predicts the effect of an independent variable on a dependent variable.

If-then

A hypothesis often follows a basic format of?

Dr. Edward Tronick

The Still Face Experiment is headed by?

1. a solid question

2. background research

3. making sure it’s testable

4. independent and dependent variable

What Makes a Good Hypothesis?

published

Review research that has already been _____________. Both experimental and nonexperimental studies can prove helpful.

1. Synthetic statements

2. Testable/Testability

3. Falsifiable

4. Parsimony

5. Fruitful

The Characteristics of an Experimental Hypothesis

Synthetic statements

are those that can be either true or false

Testable

when it can be assessed by manipulating an IV and measuring the results on the DV

scientific utility

Many hypotheses lack _____________ because they are untestable.

Falsifiable

meaning they can be disproven by empirical findings. A hypothesis should be structured so that failure to observe the predicted outcome counts as evidence against it.

Parsimony

means that we prefer a simple hypothesis over one requiring many supporting assumptions.

Occam’s razor from William Ockham’s name.

Parsimony is also known as?

Fruitful

leads to new research studies, inspires other future studies

Induction

is reasoning from specific cases to general principles to form a hypothesis

inductive reasoning

Researchers use ____________ to construct theories by creating explanations that account for empirical data

deduction

is reasoning from general principles to specific predictions

deductive reasoning

This approach is used to test the assumptions of a theory.

Serendipity

“finding something good without even looking for it”

Intuition

Knowing without reasoning, or unconscious problem-solving.

literature review

Intuition must be directed by our ___________.

experts

Intuition is most accurate if it comes from ___________.

objectivity

Intuition should not destroy _____________.