{"id":36,"date":"2023-11-01T13:14:00","date_gmt":"2023-11-01T13:14:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology1\/chapter\/construct-hypotheses-and-define-objectives\/"},"modified":"2024-09-18T03:07:31","modified_gmt":"2024-09-18T03:07:31","slug":"construct-hypotheses-and-define-objectives","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/chapter\/construct-hypotheses-and-define-objectives\/","title":{"raw":"Construct Hypotheses and Define Objectives","rendered":"Construct Hypotheses and Define Objectives"},"content":{"raw":"<h6 style=\"text-align: center\">The next step involved in the [pb_glossary id=\"120\"]scientific method[\/pb_glossary] is to formulate a [pb_glossary id=\"118\"]hypothesis[\/pb_glossary] based on the [pb_glossary id=\"124\"]observation[\/pb_glossary]. How can you do it? Try answering your problem or your [pb_glossary id=\"142\"]research question[\/pb_glossary].<\/h6>\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Learning Objectives<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\nAfter completing this chapter, you will be able to:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>construct a testable hypothesis that is specific, falsifiable, and supported by existing knowledge<\/li>\r\n \t<li>formulate research objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">In its simplest form, a hypothesis is an educated guess. It is a tentative statement that suggests a potential answer to a research question. It could be a possible explanation for an observed phenomenon, a proposed solution to a problem, or a potential correlation between variables. However, there are several conditions to meet for a well-formulated hypothesis. Among others, it should be:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>testable through experimentation and data analysis,<\/li>\r\n \t<li>falsifiable[footnote]Popper, K. (1959). The Logic of Scientific Discovery. Routledge.[\/footnote],<\/li>\r\n \t<li>clear and specific,<\/li>\r\n \t<li>logically consistent with existing knowledge,<\/li>\r\n \t<li>including an [pb_glossary id=\"126\"]independent variable[\/pb_glossary]\u00a0and a [pb_glossary id=\"128\"]dependent variable[\/pb_glossary].<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Let\u2019s explore the characteristics of a well-formulated hypothesis one by one.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em;text-align: initial\">Testability<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">The hypothesis should be formulated in a way that it can be empirically tested through data collection and analysis. You should be able to design experiments, conduct observations, or analyze existing data to empirically test the hypothesis and generate evidence for or against it.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\">\"Increasing levels of noise pollution negatively impact bird species richness.\"<\/div>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><span style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em;color: #000000\">This hypothesis is testable by conducting field surveys in areas with varying levels of noise pollution and analyzing the relationship between noise levels and bird species richness.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em;text-align: initial\">[pb_glossary id=\"138\"]Falsifiability[\/pb_glossary]<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">A good hypothesis is falsifiable, which means it can be potentially proven wrong or falsified using empirical data. In other words, there must be a way to test the hypothesis and find evidence that\u00a0 refutes it.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: justify\"><span style=\"text-align: center;background-color: initial;font-size: 1em\">\"Increasing levels of pesticide exposure have no effect on honeybee colony health.\"\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This hypothesis is falsifiable because it is possible to conduct experiments or collect data that could show a detrimental effect of pesticide exposure on honeybee colonies and refute the hypothesis.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Clarity and specificity<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">A well-formulated hypothesis is clear and precisely states the relationship or phenomenon being investigated. <\/span>This clarity and specificity help in designing appropriate research methods, collecting relevant data, and subsequent analysis.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">\"Increased levels of habitat fragmentation are negatively correlated with plant species diversity in a forest ecosystem.\"<\/span><\/div>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This\u00a0<span style=\"font-size: 1em\">hypothesis guides researchers to investigate the impact of habitat fragmentation on plant species diversity.<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">It clearly states the relationship between habitat fragmentation and plant species diversity. <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">The hypothesis statement directs the researchers how the research could be conducted by selecting multiple forest sites with varying degree of habitat fragmentation and collecting plant diversity such as species richness and abundance data within each sample area. The relationship between the two variables can then be evaluated by applying statistical methods like regression analysis or correlation analysis.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Logical consistency<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">A well-formulated hypothesis should be logically consistent with existing knowledge, theories, or observations in the field. It should build upon existing evidence and be grounded in a sound theoretical framework.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\">\"Increased temperature leads to changes in the breeding behavior of reptiles.\"<\/div>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This hypothesis is consistent with the known physiological responses of reptiles to temperature changes, such as influencing their reproductive behavior and nesting patterns.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Independent and dependent variables<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">In most cases, hypothesis statement should include clearly defined independent and dependent variables. The researcher manipulates or changes the independent variable that is believed to affect the dependent variable. The dependent variable will be measured or observed and it is expected to be influenced by the independent variable.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">\"Increased total suspended solids levels negatively impact fish growth.\"<\/span><\/div>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">In this case, fish growth is the dependent variable being tracked, and it is believed to be affected by the independent variable, total suspended solids levels. The researcher manipulates different levels of total suspended solids to see how they affect fish growth.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">It's important to note that in some cases,\u00a0<span style=\"font-size: 1em\">there may not be a clear independent variable if the research is focus on describing a specific phenomenon or characteristic.<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">\"<\/span>There is a new species of orchid in Borneo rainforest region.<span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">\"<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This hypothesis focuses on describing the presence or absence of the new species rather than examining a relationship between variables. The researchers conduct field surveys and collect plant specimens from the Borneo rainforest region. They compare the collected specimens with known orchid species and conduct morphological and genetic analyses. If the specimens exhibit distinct characteristics that differentiate them from known species, the researchers may conclude that they have discovered a new orchid species.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Check Point 2.1<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\n<span style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em\">[h5p id=\"4\"]<\/span>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<hr>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">After constructing your hypothesis, you should define a set of research [pb_glossary id=\"148\"]objectives[\/pb_glossary] that can be achieved for you to answer your research question. Research objectives are specific goals that outline the tasks or outcomes that a researcher aims to attain through their study. The SMART framework, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, can help you define research objectives. Here\u2019s a breakdown of each component:<\/p>\r\n\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Specific<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Research objectives should address specific aspects of the research topic. Clearly state what you intend to investigate in your objective. It should be precise and focused, and avoid vague or overly broad objectives.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"5\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Measurable<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Identify key variables or indicators that can be quantified or observed for your objectives. This is important because progress and achievement can be assessed through the output. It also facilitates data collection and subsequent statistical analysis.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"6\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Achievable<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Research objectives should be realistic and attainable within the available resources, time frame, and constraints of the study. It's important to set objectives that can be accomplished given the available means and limitations.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"7\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Relevant<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">The research objective should be relevant to your research topic. Aligned your research objectives with the research questions and hypotheses being investigated. It should be able to provide specific information that directly addresses the research question or problem at hand.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"8\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Time-bound<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Research objectives should have a specific time frame or timeline for completion. This helps to plan and manage the research process effectively. Most of the time, the objective itself may not provide a specific timeline. Various factors, such as the complexity of the experiment and laboratory procedures, or the nature of the data collection and analysis, can be used to estimate the timeframe for the objective.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\n[h5p id=\"9\"]\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">When defining your research objective, always check if it fit to the SMART criteria (see BOX 2.1) to ensure that your objective is clear, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This approach enhances the focus and effectiveness of the research study, leading to meaningful outcomes and contributions to the field.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--examples\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">BOX 2.1: Example of research objective fits the SMART criteria<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><strong><sup>\"To determine the relationship between habitat heterogeneity and amphibian species richness in wetland ecosystems by conducting surveys over a 1-year period.''<\/sup><\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n<table class=\"lines\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse;width: 100%;height: 154px\" border=\"0\">\r\n<tbody>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 15px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 15px\"><sup>SMART criteria<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 15px\"><sup>Check<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 15px\"><sup>Remarks<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Specific<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>clearly states the focus on determining the relationship between habitat heterogeneity and amphibian species richness.<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 15px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 15px\"><sup>Measurable<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 15px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 15px\"><sup>the variable, amphibian species richness is measurable.\u00a0<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Achievable<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>it is feasible to conduct field surveys and analyze the correlation between habitat heterogeneity and species richness.<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Relevant<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>the objective is relevant to understanding the factors influencing amphibian biodiversity in wetland ecosystems.<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\r\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Time-bound<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>the objective specify a duration\u00a0for data collection by conducting surveys over a 1-year period.<\/sup><\/td>\r\n<\/tr>\r\n<\/tbody>\r\n<\/table>\r\n<sup>Always check if your research objective fit the SMART criteria!<\/sup>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\">\r\n<h1><strong>Research Aim<\/strong><\/h1>\r\n<p class=\"hanging-indent\" style=\"text-align: justify\">The research aim is the overarching goal of a research study. It is broader in scope and provides the general direction for the study, whereas the research objective is a specific, measurable step or sub-goal that contributes to the achievement of the research aim. Like the research objective, it should also be in line with the research question and hypothesis, and it should be realistic and attainable given the limitations of the study, such as the time, resources, and expertise that are available.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><strong>Research Aim<\/strong>: To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of a newly gazette marine protected areas (MPAs) in promoting the recovery of coral reefs.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><strong>Research Objective<\/strong>: To measure the changes in coral cover within and outside of the protected areas every six months after the gazette of the marine protected areas for three years.<\/p>\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">As shown in the example above, the research aim states a broader goal without going into detail about methodology, whereas the research objective provides a specific task that is measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Exercises 2.1<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Carefully review the research question in Exercise 1.1 and identify the variables involved. Construct a hypothesis that is specific, testable, falsifiable, and logically consistent with existing knowledge. Subsequently, formulate a research objective using the SMART framework. <span style=\"background-color: transparent;color: #373d3f;font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.25em;font-weight: bold;text-align: center\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"<h6 style=\"text-align: center\">The next step involved in the <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_120\">scientific method<\/a> is to formulate a <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_118\">hypothesis<\/a> based on the <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_124\">observation<\/a>. How can you do it? Try answering your problem or your <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_142\">research question<\/a>.<\/h6>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Learning Objectives<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p>After completing this chapter, you will be able to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>construct a testable hypothesis that is specific, falsifiable, and supported by existing knowledge<\/li>\n<li>formulate research objectives that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">In its simplest form, a hypothesis is an educated guess. It is a tentative statement that suggests a potential answer to a research question. It could be a possible explanation for an observed phenomenon, a proposed solution to a problem, or a potential correlation between variables. However, there are several conditions to meet for a well-formulated hypothesis. Among others, it should be:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>testable through experimentation and data analysis,<\/li>\n<li>falsifiable<a class=\"footnote\" title=\"Popper, K. (1959). The Logic of Scientific Discovery. Routledge.\" id=\"return-footnote-36-1\" href=\"#footnote-36-1\" aria-label=\"Footnote 1\"><sup class=\"footnote\">[1]<\/sup><\/a>,<\/li>\n<li>clear and specific,<\/li>\n<li>logically consistent with existing knowledge,<\/li>\n<li>including an <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_126\">independent variable<\/a>\u00a0and a <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_128\">dependent variable<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Let\u2019s explore the characteristics of a well-formulated hypothesis one by one.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em;text-align: initial\">Testability<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">The hypothesis should be formulated in a way that it can be empirically tested through data collection and analysis. You should be able to design experiments, conduct observations, or analyze existing data to empirically test the hypothesis and generate evidence for or against it.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\">&#8220;Increasing levels of noise pollution negatively impact bird species richness.&#8221;<\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><span style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em;color: #000000\">This hypothesis is testable by conducting field surveys in areas with varying levels of noise pollution and analyzing the relationship between noise levels and bird species richness.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em;text-align: initial\"><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_138\">Falsifiability<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">A good hypothesis is falsifiable, which means it can be potentially proven wrong or falsified using empirical data. In other words, there must be a way to test the hypothesis and find evidence that\u00a0 refutes it.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: justify\"><span style=\"text-align: center;background-color: initial;font-size: 1em\">&#8220;Increasing levels of pesticide exposure have no effect on honeybee colony health.&#8221;\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This hypothesis is falsifiable because it is possible to conduct experiments or collect data that could show a detrimental effect of pesticide exposure on honeybee colonies and refute the hypothesis.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Clarity and specificity<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">A well-formulated hypothesis is clear and precisely states the relationship or phenomenon being investigated. <\/span>This clarity and specificity help in designing appropriate research methods, collecting relevant data, and subsequent analysis.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">&#8220;Increased levels of habitat fragmentation are negatively correlated with plant species diversity in a forest ecosystem.&#8221;<\/span><\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This\u00a0<span style=\"font-size: 1em\">hypothesis guides researchers to investigate the impact of habitat fragmentation on plant species diversity.<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">\u00a0<\/span><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">It clearly states the relationship between habitat fragmentation and plant species diversity. <\/span><span style=\"font-size: 1em\">The hypothesis statement directs the researchers how the research could be conducted by selecting multiple forest sites with varying degree of habitat fragmentation and collecting plant diversity such as species richness and abundance data within each sample area. The relationship between the two variables can then be evaluated by applying statistical methods like regression analysis or correlation analysis.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Logical consistency<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">A well-formulated hypothesis should be logically consistent with existing knowledge, theories, or observations in the field. It should build upon existing evidence and be grounded in a sound theoretical framework.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\">&#8220;Increased temperature leads to changes in the breeding behavior of reptiles.&#8221;<\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This hypothesis is consistent with the known physiological responses of reptiles to temperature changes, such as influencing their reproductive behavior and nesting patterns.<\/p>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Independent and dependent variables<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">In most cases, hypothesis statement should include clearly defined independent and dependent variables. The researcher manipulates or changes the independent variable that is believed to affect the dependent variable. The dependent variable will be measured or observed and it is expected to be influenced by the independent variable.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox\" style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">&#8220;Increased total suspended solids levels negatively impact fish growth.&#8221;<\/span><\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">In this case, fish growth is the dependent variable being tracked, and it is believed to be affected by the independent variable, total suspended solids levels. The researcher manipulates different levels of total suspended solids to see how they affect fish growth.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">It&#8217;s important to note that in some cases,\u00a0<span style=\"font-size: 1em\">there may not be a clear independent variable if the research is focus on describing a specific phenomenon or characteristic.<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox\">\n<p style=\"text-align: center\"><span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">&#8220;<\/span>There is a new species of orchid in Borneo rainforest region.<span class=\"very-tight\" style=\"text-align: center\">&#8220;<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">This hypothesis focuses on describing the presence or absence of the new species rather than examining a relationship between variables. The researchers conduct field surveys and collect plant specimens from the Borneo rainforest region. They compare the collected specimens with known orchid species and conduct morphological and genetic analyses. If the specimens exhibit distinct characteristics that differentiate them from known species, the researchers may conclude that they have discovered a new orchid species.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Check Point 2.1<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p><span style=\"text-align: initial;font-size: 1em\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"h5p-4\">\n<div class=\"h5p-iframe-wrapper\"><iframe id=\"h5p-iframe-4\" class=\"h5p-iframe\" data-content-id=\"4\" style=\"height:1px\" src=\"about:blank\" frameBorder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" title=\"Hypothesis\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">After constructing your hypothesis, you should define a set of research <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_36_148\">objectives<\/a> that can be achieved for you to answer your research question. Research objectives are specific goals that outline the tasks or outcomes that a researcher aims to attain through their study. The SMART framework, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, can help you define research objectives. Here\u2019s a breakdown of each component:<\/p>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Specific<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Research objectives should address specific aspects of the research topic. Clearly state what you intend to investigate in your objective. It should be precise and focused, and avoid vague or overly broad objectives.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<div id=\"h5p-5\">\n<div class=\"h5p-iframe-wrapper\"><iframe id=\"h5p-iframe-5\" class=\"h5p-iframe\" data-content-id=\"5\" style=\"height:1px\" src=\"about:blank\" frameBorder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" title=\"Specific Objective\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Measurable<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Identify key variables or indicators that can be quantified or observed for your objectives. This is important because progress and achievement can be assessed through the output. It also facilitates data collection and subsequent statistical analysis.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<div id=\"h5p-6\">\n<div class=\"h5p-iframe-wrapper\"><iframe id=\"h5p-iframe-6\" class=\"h5p-iframe\" data-content-id=\"6\" style=\"height:1px\" src=\"about:blank\" frameBorder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" title=\"Measurable objective\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Achievable<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Research objectives should be realistic and attainable within the available resources, time frame, and constraints of the study. It&#8217;s important to set objectives that can be accomplished given the available means and limitations.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<div id=\"h5p-7\">\n<div class=\"h5p-iframe-wrapper\"><iframe id=\"h5p-iframe-7\" class=\"h5p-iframe\" data-content-id=\"7\" style=\"height:1px\" src=\"about:blank\" frameBorder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" title=\"Achievable objective\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Relevant<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">The research objective should be relevant to your research topic. Aligned your research objectives with the research questions and hypotheses being investigated. It should be able to provide specific information that directly addresses the research question or problem at hand.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<div id=\"h5p-8\">\n<div class=\"h5p-iframe-wrapper\"><iframe id=\"h5p-iframe-8\" class=\"h5p-iframe\" data-content-id=\"8\" style=\"height:1px\" src=\"about:blank\" frameBorder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" title=\"Relevant Objective\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h4><strong><span style=\"font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.26562em\">Time-bound<\/span><\/strong><\/h4>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Research objectives should have a specific time frame or timeline for completion. This helps to plan and manage the research process effectively. Most of the time, the objective itself may not provide a specific timeline. Various factors, such as the complexity of the experiment and laboratory procedures, or the nature of the data collection and analysis, can be used to estimate the timeframe for the objective.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">TRY IT!<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<div id=\"h5p-9\">\n<div class=\"h5p-iframe-wrapper\"><iframe id=\"h5p-iframe-9\" class=\"h5p-iframe\" data-content-id=\"9\" style=\"height:1px\" src=\"about:blank\" frameBorder=\"0\" scrolling=\"no\" title=\"Time bound objective\"><\/iframe><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">When defining your research objective, always check if it fit to the SMART criteria (see BOX 2.1) to ensure that your objective is clear, measurable, attainable, relevant, and time-bound. This approach enhances the focus and effectiveness of the research study, leading to meaningful outcomes and contributions to the field.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--examples\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">BOX 2.1: Example of research objective fits the SMART criteria<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><strong><sup>&#8220;To determine the relationship between habitat heterogeneity and amphibian species richness in wetland ecosystems by conducting surveys over a 1-year period.&#8221;<\/sup><\/strong><\/p>\n<table class=\"lines\" style=\"border-collapse: collapse;width: 100%;height: 154px\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 15px\">\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 15px\"><sup>SMART criteria<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 15px\"><sup>Check<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 15px\"><sup>Remarks<\/sup><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Specific<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>clearly states the focus on determining the relationship between habitat heterogeneity and amphibian species richness.<\/sup><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 15px\">\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 15px\"><sup>Measurable<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 15px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 15px\"><sup>the variable, amphibian species richness is measurable.\u00a0<\/sup><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Achievable<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>it is feasible to conduct field surveys and analyze the correlation between habitat heterogeneity and species richness.<\/sup><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Relevant<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>the objective is relevant to understanding the factors influencing amphibian biodiversity in wetland ecosystems.<\/sup><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 31px\">\n<td style=\"width: 19.7169%;height: 31px\"><sup>Time-bound<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 11.0786%;height: 31px\"><sup>\u2714<\/sup><\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 69.2044%;height: 31px\"><sup>the objective specify a duration\u00a0for data collection by conducting surveys over a 1-year period.<\/sup><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p><sup>Always check if your research objective fit the SMART criteria!<\/sup><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\">\n<h1><strong>Research Aim<\/strong><\/h1>\n<p class=\"hanging-indent\" style=\"text-align: justify\">The research aim is the overarching goal of a research study. It is broader in scope and provides the general direction for the study, whereas the research objective is a specific, measurable step or sub-goal that contributes to the achievement of the research aim. Like the research objective, it should also be in line with the research question and hypothesis, and it should be realistic and attainable given the limitations of the study, such as the time, resources, and expertise that are available.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><strong>Research Aim<\/strong>: To evaluate the long-term effectiveness of a newly gazette marine protected areas (MPAs) in promoting the recovery of coral reefs.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\"><strong>Research Objective<\/strong>: To measure the changes in coral cover within and outside of the protected areas every six months after the gazette of the marine protected areas for three years.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">As shown in the example above, the research aim states a broader goal without going into detail about methodology, whereas the research objective provides a specific task that is measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Exercises 2.1<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p style=\"text-align: justify\">Carefully review the research question in Exercise 1.1 and identify the variables involved. Construct a hypothesis that is specific, testable, falsifiable, and logically consistent with existing knowledge. Subsequently, formulate a research objective using the SMART framework. <span style=\"background-color: transparent;color: #373d3f;font-family: 'Cormorant Garamond', serif;font-size: 1.25em;font-weight: bold;text-align: center\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr class=\"before-footnotes clear\" \/><div class=\"footnotes\"><ol><li id=\"footnote-36-1\">Popper, K. (1959). The Logic of Scientific Discovery. Routledge. <a href=\"#return-footnote-36-1\" class=\"return-footnote\" aria-label=\"Return to footnote 1\">&crarr;<\/a><\/li><\/ol><\/div><div class=\"glossary\"><span class=\"screen-reader-text\" id=\"definition\">definition<\/span><template id=\"term_36_120\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_120\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>A systematic and iterative approach used by scientists to investigate and understand the natural world. It involves making observations, formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and drawing conclusions.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_36_118\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_118\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>An assumption based on sound evidence (educated guess) assumed for the sake of testing its soundness.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_36_124\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_124\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>The active acquisition of information from a primary source, either through our senses, or data recorded during an experiment using scientific tools and instruments<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_36_142\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_142\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>A clear, concise, and specific question that guides the research process and defines the focus of the study.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_36_126\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_126\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>The variable that is intentionally manipulated or changed by the researcher in an experiment. It is hypothesized to have an effect on the dependent variable.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_36_128\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_128\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>The variable that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable. It is expected to be influenced by the independent variable.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_36_138\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_138\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>The principle that a scientific hypothesis or theory must be capable of being proven false.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_36_148\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_36_148\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>A specific and measurable goal or outcome that the problem statement seeks to achieve. Objective provide a clear direction for the research or problem-solving process.<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><\/div>","protected":false},"author":102,"menu_order":2,"template":"","meta":{"pb_show_title":"on","pb_short_title":"","pb_subtitle":"","pb_authors":[],"pb_section_license":"cc-by-nc-sa"},"chapter-type":[],"contributor":[],"license":[57],"class_list":["post-36","chapter","type-chapter","status-publish","hentry","license-cc-by-nc-sa"],"part":32,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/36","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/chapter"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/102"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/36\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":188,"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/36\/revisions\/188"}],"part":[{"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/parts\/32"}],"metadata":[{"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapters\/36\/metadata\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=36"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"chapter-type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/pressbooks\/v2\/chapter-type?post=36"},{"taxonomy":"contributor","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/contributor?post=36"},{"taxonomy":"license","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/openbook.ums.edu.my\/researchmethodology\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/license?post=36"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}