Research Hypothesis

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