Step 2: Formulating Hypotheses

Abstract

Once a problem definition has been formulated, the team can proceed to step 2 of the data team^TM procedure and formulate hypotheses pertaining to the possible causes of the problem. Now that the team knows what the problem is exactly, they work on discovering the why of the situation: what is the cause of the problem? When drawing up hypotheses, we differentiate between exploratory and explanatory hypotheses. An exploratory hypothesis concerns further specification of the problem, without going into the actual cause. It is all about the question of where or with whom the problem mostly occurs. An explanatory hypothesis names a possible cause for the problem. Furthermore, it is possible to work with a research question rather than a hypothesis. A hypothesis can be investigated using quantitative data, such as test scores, progress data with regard to how many students progressed to the next grade level, or scores on a questionnaire. A research question can be answered with qualitative data. These are data that mostly make use of information of a qualitative nature, which can be used to describe and interpret research problems in or related to situations, events and people. They include the opinions, experiences and behavior of students, teachers and parents, for example. This chapter describes in depth how to formulate hypotheses and research questions, and provides several examples.