Page 46 - Quantitative Data Analysis

Quantitative Data Analysis
Simply Explained Using SPSS

Characteristics of a Usable Hypothesis

1. A hypothesis states the expected relationship between
variables

2. A hypothesis must be testable

a. A hypothesis should identify the population and the
variables to be measured (operationally define
variables)

b. Avoid value statements (i.e., desirable, favorable,

etc.) as they are hard to define (each person may
define differently) and vague

3. A hypothesis should be consistent with the existing body of
knowledge

4. A hypothesis should be stated as simply and concisely as
possible – parsimony is important with hypotheses.

Types of Hypotheses

5. Null Hypothesis (H 0): statement that there is NO
relationship, NO impact, or NO difference.

1. We assume the null hypothesis is true and test against the
null hypothesis.
2. We ultimately make statements about the likelihood the
null hypothesis is true.

The Theory and Applications of Statistical Inferences 30