Hypothesis

• Before experiments, researchers put forward an alternative or experimental hypothesis; statement they wish to test
• A hypothesis is a testable statement prediction
• Types of hypothesis

  • Directional
  • non-directional
  • Null
• Directional hypothesis

  • a hypothesis that suggests there will be a difference or a relationship between the variables, the IV will affect the DV in a specific direction
• Non-directional hypothesis

  • Hypothesis suggests there will be a relationship between variables but does not state the specific direction
• Null hypothesis

  • Hypothesis suggesting there will be no relationship between the variables
• Why do people chose a directional

  • Extensive background information
  • Confident
• Why do people chose non-directional

  • Limited background material
  • Not as confident