Topic 3

Theories and Hypothesis

Hypothesis: suggestions expressed as proposition to explain an event. If tested and found correct it becomes part of theory. Theory in its early stages forms a hypothesis. Theory is the outcome of facts, observations, verifications and hypothesis.

Theory provides a guidelines to the researcher on pointing put the area which is more fruitful to conduct research.

Research design
Selection

of research problem Title of the research project Purpose of the study Literature review Objectives of study Hypothesis selection Selection of sample

 Data

collection Analysis Interpretation Conclusions Suggestions for future research Bibliography and appendix

Scientific methods in research

Validity: refers to how well a scientific test or piece of research actually measures what it sets out to, or how well it reflects the reality it claims to represent. Reliability: the degree to which an instrument measures the same way each time it is used under the same condition with the same subjects.

Interviews
The collection of data by asking people questions and following up by probing their answers In qualitative market research an interview may be conducted with just one respondent (depth interview) with pairs (paired depths), small groups (mini-groups), or group discussions

Observation
Deriving understanding of an activity or group by watching it Overt Participant observation

Covert participant observation

Overt non participant observation Covert non participant observation

surveys
A quantitative research project in which a relatively large number of people are interviewed, each being asked a standard set of questions (questionnaires), posed in the same way each time. The findings are collected as numerical data, are generally subjected to computer analysis and are interpreted at least in part through the application of statistical concepts.

Role play and simulation

A technique in which research participants, usually within a group setting, are asked to act out a role and thereby open up some process, or relationship, to discussion by the group.

Experimental methods
A test under controlled conditions that is made to demonstrate a known truth, examine the validity of a hypothesis, or determine the efficacy of something previously untried.