Example: Research question: Does studying for a longer period of time improve test scores? Independent variable: studying time Dependent variable: test scores Research hypothesis: Increased studying time will lead to higher test scores. Null hypothesis: There will be no significant difference in test scores between students who study for a longer period of time and those who study for a shorter period of time.
Comment on Classmate 1’s post: Research question: How does parental involvement affect student academic achievement? Research hypothesis: Students whose parents are more involved in their education will achieve higher academic success. Null hypothesis: There will be no significant difference in academic achievement between students whose parents are more involved and those whose parents are less involved in their education.
I believe Classmate 1’s research hypothesis and null hypothesis are appropriate for their research question. They clearly define the independent variable as parental involvement and the dependent variable as academic achievement. Their hypothesis and null hypothesis directly address the research question and provide clear statements of what they expect to find and what they expect not to find.
Comment on Classmate 2’s post: Research question: Does exercise improve cognitive function? Research hypothesis: Exercise will improve cognitive function. Null hypothesis: There will be no significant difference in cognitive function between individuals who exercise and those who do not exercise.
Classmate 2’s research hypothesis and null hypothesis are also appropriate for their research question. They define the independent variable as exercise and the dependent variable as cognitive function. Their hypothesis and null hypothesis are clear and direct, stating what they expect to find and what they expect not to find. However, it may be worth considering the specific types of exercise and cognitive function they are measuring, as well as potential confounding variables that may affect the results.