Theory - Attempts to explain why two or more events are related. A theory CANNOT be proven correct, and must be falsifiable (testable). That is, a good theory subjects itself to close scrutiny/intense testing to prove it false, and withstands that testing.
Hypothesis - A possible answer to a research question, or an educated guess about the relationship between events. Does NOT attempt to explain why events are related.
Some Research Methods of the Social Sciences
Quantitative vs. Qualitative methods
Quantitative - the hallmarks of quantitative methods of research are:
i) counting of, or precise measurements of observable behaviour.
ii) concentration on a limited number of variables.
iii) making predictions based on statistics.
Most quantitative methods do not observe ‘real world’ behaviour. Examples of quantitative methods include: surveys/questionnaires, experiments, field experiments, and correlational research.
Qualitative - research methods that aim to understand and explain behaviour.
"Human behaviour is unique because of the subjective meanings and motivation attached. Choices are made based on these meanings.” Max Weber
Examples of qualitative methods include: participant observation, case studies, interviews, and archival search.
Quantitative Methods
Correlational research - A technique used to measure how closely two
Hypothesis - A possible answer to a research question, or an educated guess about the relationship between events. Does NOT attempt to explain why events are related.
Some Research Methods of the Social Sciences
Quantitative vs. Qualitative methods
Quantitative - the hallmarks of quantitative methods of research are:
i) counting of, or precise measurements of observable behaviour.
ii) concentration on a limited number of variables.
iii) making predictions based on statistics.
Most quantitative methods do not observe ‘real world’ behaviour. Examples of quantitative methods include: surveys/questionnaires, experiments, field experiments, and correlational research.
Qualitative - research methods that aim to understand and explain behaviour.
"Human behaviour is unique because of the subjective meanings and motivation attached. Choices are made based on these meanings.” Max Weber
Examples of qualitative methods include: participant observation, case studies, interviews, and archival search.
Quantitative Methods
Correlational research - A technique used to measure how closely two