Mean and Mean difference are the two key statistical measures used in the statistical analysis. Both are essential for meta-analysis as well. Mean and Mean difference are used for the interpretation of a large set of values into a single number which explains the heterogeneity and variation among the individual values. However, one of a common challenge in meta-analysis is the unavailability of this data (mean and standard deviation).
Q & A Forum
Meta Analysis
Q: Understanding the Concept of Hypothesis in Scientific Research
Introduction
A hypothesis is essential to scientific research, shaping the research goal and supporting the approach. Nevertheless, an improperly created hypothesis can misinterpret the research, leading to biased outcome. This article highlights the terminology, characteristics, and implication of a hypothesis, differentiate it from associated terms such as ideas, theory and problems.
Origin and definition of Hypothesis
The word “Hypothesis” is derived from Greek meaning foundation. Hypo meaning under and thesis means placing in Greek.
- In philosophy, it is defined as “a proposition made as a basis for reasoning, without any assumption of its truth.”
From above information, a hypothesis is not an incorporated fact but a preliminary prediction subject to review.
Importance of Hypothesis in scientific Research
A well-structured hypothesis:
- Provides a structure for parameters, anticipated results and indicators.
- supports in deriving valid outcomes, either helping or denying the initial prediction.
- Shortens the research goal, ensuring an accurate focus.
- supports data retrieval and analysis, making research more defined.
Example of a Well-Defined Hypothesis
- Hypothesis: “Consuming 700 mg of dried extract of Ginko biloba daily boosts the cognitive function in children”
- Testability: The hypothesis can be tested through randomized controlled trials measuring cognitive function score.
Hypothesis vs. Idea, Theory, and Problem
4.1 Hypothesis vs. Idea
An idea is wider than a hypothesis. It can be a concept, creative thought or assumption without the need of experimental validation.
Example
- Idea: “Life exists in many planets like the earth.”
- Hypothesis: “If life exists outside Earth, sample of microbial life can be found on Venus.”
Hypothesis is more structured component than an idea
4.2 Hypothesis vs Theory
A theory is a well-standard interpretation based on extensive evidence and reviewed hypotheses.
For instance,
- Hypothesis: “Life on earth originated from water”
A hypothesis can emerge into a theory after repeated testing and evaluation.
4.3 Hypothesis vs. Research Problem
A research problem is wider question finding an area of interest, while a hypothesis is a particular suggestion implying an association between two variables.
Example
- Research Problem: “Does practical demonstration develops students’ creative thoughts?”
- Hypothesis: “Students demonstrating practical experience score higher in physics than those studying through traditional textbooks.”
A hypothesis can be tested whereas the hypothesis cannot be tested.
Components of a Hypothesis
A hypothesis should be:
- Specific – Specific for research topic.
- Testable – Possible for experimentation
- Falsifiable – Should be able to conclude the negative outcome
- Based on Prior Knowledge – Based upon the existing knowledge and theories
Example of a Strong Hypothesis
- Weak Hypothesis: “Imbalance in diet cause nutritional deficiency.”
- Strong Hypothesis: “Reduced protein intake can cause Kwashiorkor”
Hypothesis Testing
A hypothesis undergoes intensive assessment through scientific procedures:
Step 1: Hypothesis formulation
- Example: “Ginko biloba plant extracts improve memory power.”
Step 2: Designing an Experiment
- Compare two groups: One group intake Ginko biloba extract, and the other does not.
Step 3: Data retrieval
- Measure Full scale IQ score (E.g. memory power, critical thinking).
Step 4: Statistical interpretation
- Use statistical tests to interpret if observed differences are significant.
Step 5: Conclusion
- If data substantiate the hypothesis test, it is recognized defended, but it is not proven yet. (since new evidence may challenge it).
will a Hypothesis Be Unverifiable?
Not all the hypotheses are verifiable, but still they are considered as a hypothesis.
Example
- This hypothesis of mass of the spaceships at light speed is supported by theory of relativity but cannot be verified due to technological restrictions.
Likewise, social science hypotheses often depend on indirect parameters.
Example
- Hypothesis: “Material wealth can affect life disciplines”
- Challenges in hypothesis: Morality can be measured indirectly through social indicators like charitable funds or crime rates.
Misinterpretation About Hypotheses
Misconception 1: A Hypothesis is an assumption
A hypothesis is not the exactly an assumption. Instead, it takes many more possibilities.
Example
- Assumption: “Humans have originated from a virus cell”
- Hypothesis: “The genetic mutation led to the human evolution”
A hypothesis gives an interpretable structure, while an assumption is an anticipated result.
Misconception 2: Hypotheses are Always verifiable
hypothesis in theoretical physics or philosophy, may not be directly testable but still serve as valid structure for scientific questions.
For Example,
- “The earth is immortal.”
- This hypothesis is mostly significant but not possible to verify directly.
Conclusion
A hypothesis provides direction and framework for scientific research. While verifiable, some hypotheses work as theoretical structure than experimentally verifiable claims. Understanding the distinction between a hypothesis, idea, and problem, theory is essential for scientific validity and procedure.
By constructing precise, specific, clear, and verifiable hypotheses, researchers can support valuable insights to their area and develop the path for future research findings.
Cavalla, D. (2019). Using human experience to identify drug repurposing opportunities: Theory and practice. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 85(3), 492–500.