Week 1 Assignment

Week 1 Assignment

Part 1

Research

The term 'research' broadly defines the processes that are involved in the creation and authentication of new information and the utilization of already existing knowledge in order to establish new theories, concepts, and methodologies. Research methods generally involve key processes such as analysis and synthesis of existing research data so as to aid in creative outcomes. Applied research involves the use of authentic investigative techniques that is generally carried out with the intention of acquiring new knowledge.

Theory

The term theory relates to an idea that is established on a hypothesis and is supported with the help of authentic credible evidence and rationale. Theories present in a comprehensible and coherent manner, concepts and ideas that are testable and justifiable. In the field of science, theories are much more than merely hunches or guesses. Instead, they relate to fact-based frameworks that describe phenomena.

Hypothesis

An explanation or supposition is ideally accepted for the purpose of interpreting a particular phenomena or event. Hypotheses can be proven either wrong or correct and in order to qualify as hypotheses, certain information needs to be refutable. If a hypothesis can stand its position as an irrefutable and undeniable fact, it becomes corroborated and verified.

Assumptions

Assumptions are logical constructs, beliefs, and unconfirmed facts. Assumptions are generally taken for granted so that they are based on information that is assumed rather than one that is based on credible facts and information.

Manifest Variables and Latent Variables

A manifest function is one that is, in its essence, consciously and extensively planned. On the other hand, a latent function is one that is unconscious and unintentional.

Validity

Validity is the extent to which research studies measure the variables and information that need to be measured. Validity can either be internal or external. Internal validity is one that validates the measurements and tests themselves while external validity is one that validates the capacity to generalize findings to a specific and defined target population. Validity is essential in analysis of meaningfulness and appropriateness of a research study, particularly because of the fact that it measures all that is claimed in the research. Finally, validity cannot be established with the use of a single statistic.

Reliability

The term 'Reliability' is used to relate to the steadiness and consistency of a measure. For example, a test will be deemed reliable if it generates the same results consistently and on a regular basis. It is, however, rather unfortunate that there are ...