Research Methods

Deduction => from general assumption to specific prediction and conclusion

Induction => researcher moves from series of observations to a generalization (doesn´t proof anything but leads to generalization that can be tested)

1. Problem

2. Hypothesis

3. Reasoning

4. Testing

• subjects should be selected at random

• subjects should be assigned to groups at random

• experimental and control groups should be selected at random

• researcher must manipulate the independent variable

Mediation:

=> it does not change the relationship but explains it

Moderation

=> Moderating is one that affects the direction or strength of the relationship between independent and dependent variable

1. They are declarative statements (not questions)

2. They are tentative —> Awaiting empirical evidence

3. They must have at least 2 variables

4. They must be testable

5. They are statements of the relation between variables

6. Must be written in present tense

=> hypotheses are usually more specific than research problems because in search for responses to the question, researchers examine the literature, conceptualize the problem and specify their concept

• only 1 variable

• missing information (more … => in comparison to what?)

• tautologies (nothing new)

• unspecific and untestable hypotheses