HYPOTHESES
Hypothesis is usually considered as the principal instrument in research. Its main function is to suggest new experiments and observations.
DEFINITION:
Hypotheses is generally defined as “an assumption or some supposition to be proved or disproved”. But for a researcher hypotheses is a formal question that he intends to resolve. Goode and Hatt have defined Hypothesis as a” proposition which can be put to test to determine validity”
NEED
· It provides direction to research and prevent collection of irrelevant data.
· It enables the investigator to classify the information.
· It ensures the collection of data necessary to study the problem.
CHARACTERISTICS
· Hypothesis should be clear and precise
· Hypothesis should be capable of being tested
· Hypothesis should state relationship between variables, it if e
· Hypothesis should be limited in scope and specific.
· Hypothesis should activated be simple in terms, so that it is easily understandable by all the concerned.
· Hypothesis should be in consistent with most known facts.
· Hypothesis should be amendable to testing with a reasonable time.
· Hypothesis must explain the facts given to the need for explanation.
FUNCTIONS
· To test theory
· To suggest theories
· To describe social phenomena
TYPES
· Correlative Hypothesis: Correlative hypothesis is statement of relationship between two concepts. For example there is a relationship between age and political awareness.
· Null Hypothesis:A null hypothesis states that there is no significant difference between two parameters. Parameter refers to the population value referred from ample value.
· Alternative Hypothesis: An alternative hypothesis states that there is a significant difference between two parameters.
DIFFICULTIES IN FORMULATION OF HYPOTHESIS
· Lack of clear theoretical background:Hypothesis do not have a clear cut and definite theoretical background. Because of this weakness it is not easy to arrive at certain conclusions.
· Lack of Logical Background:it also lacks the logical use of the theoretical background.
· Lack of knowledge of Scientific Methods:It is always not possible to have complete information of and acquaintance with the scientific methods of formulation of hypothesis. This lack of scientific knowledge presents difficulty in formulation of hypothesis
