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Sixth Assonment

Operational terms in a research thesis are defined as the specific ways in which concepts or variables are measured, ensuring clarity and precision in research. Key guidelines for selecting these definitions include alignment with research objectives, clarity, measurability, validity, feasibility, consistency with existing literature, and ethical considerations. These operational definitions are essential for transforming abstract concepts into measurable variables, facilitating consistency and replicability in research studies.

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15 views4 pages

Sixth Assonment

Operational terms in a research thesis are defined as the specific ways in which concepts or variables are measured, ensuring clarity and precision in research. Key guidelines for selecting these definitions include alignment with research objectives, clarity, measurability, validity, feasibility, consistency with existing literature, and ethical considerations. These operational definitions are essential for transforming abstract concepts into measurable variables, facilitating consistency and replicability in research studies.

Uploaded by

Ali
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© © All Rights Reserved
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WHAT IS THE DEFINITION OF OPERATIONAL TERMS IN RESEARCH THESIS

AND WHAT GUIDE THE SELECTION OF OPERATIONAL TERMS IN RESEARCH A


THESIS

SUBMITTED BY:
Ali Abubakar Audu
PGS/24-25/4/M/10777

SUBMITTED TO:
Prof. Ibrahim I Inuwa

COURSE:
Research Skills & Techniques (QP613)

PROGRAM:
MTech. in Project Management
DEPARTMENT:
Quantity Surveying Department
INSTITUTION:
Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) Bauchi

DATE OF SUBMISSION:
25TH April, 2025
Definition of Operational Terms in a Research Thesis
In academic research, particularly at the postgraduate level, precision in defining variables is

paramount. An operational definition articulates how a concept or variable is measured or

identified within a specific study, translating abstract theoretical constructs into concrete,

observable, and measurable elements. This process ensures that researchers and readers have a

clear understanding of what is being studied and how (Stevens, 1935).

For instance, consider the concept of "academic performance." While theoretically broad, in a

research context, it might be operationally defined as the cumulative grade point average (GPA)

of students at the end of an academic session. This precise definition ensures that the term is

consistently understood and measured across the study. Operational definitions are crucial because

they provide clarity and specificity, reduce ambiguity, facilitate the replication of studies by other

researchers, and ensure that variables are measurable and analyzable (Ennis, 1964).

Guidelines for Selecting Operational Definitions

When determining operational definitions for a research thesis, several key factors should guide

the selection:

➢ Alignment with Research Objectives: Ensure that the operational definitions directly relate

to the research questions and objectives. The chosen definitions should enable the accurate

measurement of variables pertinent to the study's aims (Bridgman, 1927).

➢ Clarity and Specificity: Definitions should be clear and specific to avoid ambiguity. This

precision helps in maintaining consistency in data collection and interpretation (Ennis,

1964).

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➢ Measurability: The variables defined should be measurable using available tools or

methods. This measurability ensures that data can be collected and analyzed effectively

(Stevens, 1935).

➢ Validity and Reliability: The operational definitions should accurately capture the concept

being studied (validity) and produce consistent results under similar conditions (reliability)

(Bridgman, 1927).

➢ Feasibility: Consider the practicality of measuring the variables as defined. The methods

chosen should be feasible in terms of time, resources, and access to data (Ennis, 1964).

➢ Consistency with Existing Literature: Where possible, align operational definitions with

those used in existing research to facilitate comparison and contribute to the body of

knowledge (Stevens, 1935).

➢ Ethical Considerations: Ensure that the methods of measurement and data collection adhere

to ethical standards, respecting the rights and privacy of participants (Bridgman, 1927).

Conclusion

Operational definitions are a cornerstone of rigorous research. They transform abstract concepts

into measurable variables, facilitating clarity, consistency, and replicability in studies. When

selecting operational definitions, researchers must consider alignment with research objectives,

clarity, measurability, validity, feasibility, consistency with existing literature, and ethical

considerations. By adhering to these guidelines, researchers enhance the quality and impact of

their work.

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References

Bridgman, P. W. (1927). The Logic of Modern Physics. Macmillan.

Ennis, R. H. (1964). Operational Definitions. Review of Educational Research, 34(2), 145–153.

https://doi.org/10.3102/00346543034002145

Stevens, S. S. (1935). The operational basis of psychology. American Journal of Psychology,

47(2), 323–330. https://doi.org/10.2307/1415841

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