Aims and Hypothesis

• Aim

  an aim is a general statement that describes the purpose of an investigation ('to investigate...')
• Hypothesis

  a hypothesis is a precise, testable statement of what the researchers predict will be the outcome of the study (how the IV will affect the DV)

  a hypothesis should include:

  • an operationalised IV (both conditions)
  • an operationalised DV
  • a prediction (either directional or non-directional)
• Directional hypothesis (one-tailed)

  this is a precise prediction which indicates the way/direction in which the IV will affect the DV

  • using words like 'more/less' or 'higher/lower'
  • always start with 'participants who...'
  • use the word 'will'

  a directional hypothesis should be used if there is previous research that shows the IV affects the DV in a certain way
• Non-directional hypothesis (two-tailed)

  this is a prediction which indicates the IV will affect the DV but does not state which way it will affect it

  • using words like 'difference' or 'relationship'
  • always start with 'there will be a difference in...'