Developing and Formulating hypothesis

A hypothesis is a researcher’s prediction regarding the outcome of the study. It

states possible differences, relationships or causes between two variables or
concepts. They are derived from or

based on existing theories, previous research, personal observations or experiences. A

study can have one hypothesis or, where the study includes several variables,
multiple hypotheses can be formulated. It is important to give careful thought to the
hypothesis because the study revolves around them. It is the hypotheses that are put
to empirical test in a study. The test of a hypothesis involves collection and analysis
of data that may either support or fail to support the hypothesis. The collected data
is analyzed to determine whether the hypothesized relationship exists.

NB: If results fail to support a stated hypothesis, it does not mean that the study has
failed. Such a situation implies that existing theories or principles need to be
revised or retested under various situations.
Depending on the type of research and nature of analysis, one can use research
questions instead of hypotheses. Where research questions are used, words such as
how, what or why are used. However, one should not use both research questions
and hypotheses.

Purpose of hypotheses

1) They provide direction.

2) They ensure collection of evidence necessary to answer the questions

posed in the statement of problem.
3) They sensitize the investigator to certain aspects of the situation that
are relevant regarding the problem at hand.
4) They permit the researcher to understand the problem with greater
clarity.
 5) They guide data collection.

6) They form the framework for the ultimate conclusions as solutions.

Characteristics of good hypotheses

1) They must state clearly and briefly the expected relationship between
variables.

2) Should be based on sound rationale derived from theory, previous

research or professional experience.
3) Should be consistent with common sense or generally accepted truths.

4) They must be testable within a reasonable time.

5) Should be related to empirical phenomena i.e. should be tested on results

from data collected and analyzed. Words that suggest moral judgment like
- “ought”, “should”, “bad” – should be avoided.
6) Variables stated in the hypotheses must be consistent with the purpose
statement, objectives and the operationalized variables in the method
section.

Types of hypotheses

There are three types of hypotheses

1) Null hypothesis

It is also known as statistical hypothesis. It states that no relationship or

difference exists between two variables. Any relationship or difference
between variables or groups is merely due to chance or error.
2) Alternative non-directional hypothesis

This is also referred to as a research hypothesis. It states that there is a

 relationship or difference between variables but the researcher does not
know the nature of such relationship or difference. It is suitable where
previous research findings are conflicting or where a strong rationale to
support a predicted relationship does not exist.
3) Alternative directional hypothesis

This specifies the nature of the relationship or difference between variables.

This means that a relationship may be stated as being greater than, less than,
increased, decreased, higher than, lower than etc.

From the previous illustration (Illustration 1), the following hypothesis and research
questions can be formulated.

Hypotheses

The study will answer the following null hypotheses.

 HO :There is no relationship between basic salary and motivation of Diploma

teachers in private primary schools in Kenya.

 HO : Provision of housing does not affect the motivation of Diploma teachers

in private primary schools in Kenya.

 HO :Health scheme does not affect the motivation of Diploma teachers in

private primary schools in Kenya

 HO :Pension does not affect the motivation of Diploma teachers in private

primary schools in Kenya

The alternative hypotheses would be as follows:

 HA : There is a relationship between basic salary and motivation of

 Diploma teachers in private primary schools in Kenya.

 HA : Provision of housing affects the motivation of Diploma teachers in

private primary schools in Kenya.

 HA : Health scheme affects the motivation of Diploma teachers in private

primary schools in Kenya

❑ HA : Pension affects the motivation of Diploma teachers in private primary

schools in Kenya

In case research questions are used, the following would be applicable:

1) What is the relationship between basic salary and motivation of Diploma
teachers in private primary schools in Kenya.
2) How does provision of housing affect motivation of Diploma teachers in
private primary schools in Kenya.
3) How does health scheme affect the motivation of Diploma teachers in
private primary schools in Kenya
4) How does pension affect the motivation of Diploma teachers in private
primary schools in Kenya