This chapter introduces the need occasioning by a theoretical framework after a literature review. An issue I found interesting is on how the theoretic framework serves as the basis of the hypothesis developed by the research. To commence, a theoretical framework is explained as the belief an individual holds on the relationship between phenomena. The explanation forwarded by the individual on how these phenomena are related is the theory. The relationship and the theory have to be in agreement with previous research carried out in the problem area. Building a theoretical framework, therefore, includes the process of introducing variables, developing a model that describes the theory, and generation of a theory explaining the relationships guiding the various variables in the model. From this theoretic framework, appropriate hypothesis are drawn. This hypothesis is important in that it identifies the variables against which the research basis.
Variables in research are the aspects that assume different values under different conditions and times. Variables, therefore, are the non-constant aspects of the research problem such as production and turnover. In a demonstration for instance, using production units, a worker produces different units of output than the next worker. Additionally, the worker may produce varying number of units at different times. The ability of production units to take on a different value means it is a variable.
Variables fall under two categories based on the way they influence each other. There are the independent variables, and the dependent variables. The independent variables are ones that influence the dependent variables. The influence may be to increase or decrease the independent variable, or influence either positive or negative attributes to the dependent variable. Therefore, when the independent variable is present in relation, the independent variable is also present to various degrees. For a variable to be independent of another variable, the independent variable possesses the following attributes. A change in the independent variable causes a change in the independent variable. The independent variable must exist before the dependent variable; a change in the dependent variable should not happen because of another factor; (if so, the researcher must account for it). A theory must exist that explains the cause of the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.
The dependent variable, on the other hand, is one that occurs on the influence of a secondary factor. This implies that the dependent variable’s existence is reliant upon the presence of another factor, which is the secondary factor. The use of a theoretical framework lays the ground for the relation of variables. Therefore, this is the starting point of the actual research as it serves as a map for the researchers on the aspects that they need to evaluate within their study.
Question:
While the independent variable should be the sole factor influencing the dependent variable, it is often the case that a variable is influenced by various factors. How do the researchers determine the singular most important variable influencing a dependent variable? Moreover, in case they do, how do they make sure that they have exhausted the variables that may influence the dependent variable before commencement of their study?
Another issue I found interesting is on the theoretical framework on which the research is modeled, It is important in that it gives a basis for the research findings. The theoretical framework finds its support in the literature review; therefore, for the examination of the most appropriate variables, as indicated by the theoretical framework, it is paramount that the study is done on their relationships and suitability in answering the research question. Modification of variables into dependent, independent, modifying or moderate ensures that the research achieves objectivity in its goal. In theoretical framework development, the researchers have to develop a research problem called the antithesis/ null hypothesis. This statement is set in order to refute the research statement. The statement is important in that it ensures that the research problem evaluated is valid. The development of hypothesis contrary to the alternate hypothesis ensures that the hypothesis is refined and grounded in solid supporting literature. Alternatively, through the testing of various theory generated around the research problem, the researchers obtain information on previously untested theory, subject to the availability of data substantiating the theory. The view of a research problem, therefore, need be extensive with all the angles to the problem evaluated. Information obtained from these hypotheses, in addition to buttressing the research problem; add knowledge to a specific research field. It is paramount that the findings of the research based on a particular theory are not refutable by the conduct of research with an alternate hypothesis.
Question:
Since theoretical framework of a research provides its basis, and the formulation of the null and another hypothesis spinning off from the alternate hypothesis is necessary, how do the researchers determine that a particular variable affects the hypothesis to a sufficient extent for its consideration for testing? For instance, worker morale in a firm is affected by various factors including remuneration. How do the researchers, conducting research on the effect of remuneration on worker’s morale considers a variable such as working environment a possible variable for an evaluation in an alternate hypothesis?
Another issue I found interesting is the managerial implications in hypothesis testing.The manager is a central figure in the conduct of research. Therefore, as they are included from the commissioning, literature review and data collection stages of the research process, so should they are included in the theoretical framework formulation. The understanding of the manager on what aspects of the research are significant is important in informing the decision making process. Further, the option of qualitative hypothesis testing available to the researchers means that the manager need be acquainted with the research problem in evaluating the results. Qualitative methods of hypothesis testing focus on aspects, which are not expressible in numbers, which is a challenge in determining the level of influence of a certain aspect. The knowledge/ experience of a manager in a certain field, therefore, means that they are in a better position at understanding the qualitative aspects described in the researcher’s reports. For instance with respect to the text example on the rise of women to top positions in management, the manager/ individual commissioning research to a particular theory must possess knowledge on the qualitative aspects described such as gender stereotyping and the qualitative value it possesses over the research problem.
Question:
Managers/ people commissioning research are important in that they must find relevance in the research findings. Inclusion of such figures in the research process ensures that they gain insights into the research problem as the process advances. How are the researchers able to prevent derailment by managers from the research problem, in case they propose hypothesis not relevant to the research problem? Are there ways of presenting research findings for easier interpretation by their users?
References:
Research Methods for Business: A Skill-Building Approach, 6th edition, 9781119942252 | CourseSmart. (n.d.). Retrieved from http://www.coursesmart.com/9781119942252/firstsection
