The document discusses the natural science research model, emphasizing a quantitative approach aimed at verifying theoretical predictions through the operationalization of abstract concepts into measurable variables. It details the processes of conceptualization, operationalization, and measurement, as well as the importance of validity, reliability, and the challenges of connecting theoretical frameworks to empirical observations. The content explores complexities in defining research units, dimensions, and indicators necessary for effective analysis in social sciences.

1. By
Dr.Kanagaraj Easwaran
Associate Professor and Head
Department of Social Work
School of Social Sciences
Mizoram University
Aizawl -796 004.

2.  Natural Science Research Model
 Quantitative Approach/Strategy/ Paradigm
 Goal: Verify the predictions of a theory
 Quantification of concepts into variables
 Quantification of association
 Formal structured instruments in data
collection
 Application of Statistical Theory &
Techniques

4. Theory Hypotheses
◦ A set of organically
connected propositions
◦ That are located at a higher
level of abstraction and
generalization than
empirical reality,
◦ And which are derived from
empirical patterns,
◦ And from which empirical
forecasts can be derived.
◦ A proposition that implies a
relationship between two or
more concepts,
◦ Which is located on a lower
scale of abstraction and
generality than the theory,
◦ Which enables the theory to
be transformed into terms
that can be tested
empirically.

5.  Semantic content(meaning) of linguistic
signs and mental images(Corbetta 2003)
 " a mental image we use as summary
device for bringing together observations
and experiences that seem to have
nothing in common [...] they do not exist
in the real world, so they can't be
measured directly" (Babbie, 1989)

6.  "Conceptualization : Process of specifying the
vague mental imagery of our concepts [by] sorting
out the kinds of observations and measurements
that will be appropriate for our research" (Babbie,
1989).
 Operationalisation: development of specific
research procedures (operations) that will result in
empirical observations representing those
concepts in the real world" Babbie (1989)

7.  Translation of theoretical abstract concepts to concrete,
observable variables
 Steps in empirical transformation of concepts
 Applying the concepts to concrete objects
 Making the concepts into attributes or property of the units of
analysis.
 Make concept-property operational
 Giving operational definition
 Establishing rules for transforming into empirical operations:
theoretical
 Application of rules on concrete cases: practical action
 Measuring, Ordering, Counting, Classifying
 Passage from properties to variables

8. Dimension I Indicator 1 Variable 1
Indicator 2 Variable 2
Concept Dimension II Indicator 3 Variable 3
Indicator 4 Variable 4 Index
Indicator 5 Variable 5
Dimension III Indicator 6 Variable 6
Indicator 7 Variable 7

9.  Involves a set of Choices or Decision Making
 Units of Analysis
 Individual, the aggregate of individuals
 Points of Focus :
 Characteristics, Behaviour, Cognition, relations
 Treatment of the Dimension of Time
 Cross Sectional or Time Series
 Nature of Measurement
 Nominal, Ordinal, Interval , or Ratio

10.  Complex Concepts
 Concept is broken into dimensions
 Indicators are chosen
 Indicators are operationalised
 Indexes or scales or formed

11.  Consistency of a measure of a concept
◦ Stability over time
◦ Internal reliability or consistency
◦ Inter-observed consistency
 Validity: Whether an indicator or set of indicators
that is devised to gauge a concept really
measures the concept. – Truthfulness
 Face Validity
 Concurrent Validity: Criterion
 Convergent: Other Measures of the same concept

12. Measurement
Causality
Generalization
Replication

13.  World of Nature vs Social World
 Phenomenological
 Self Reflection
 Consciousness
 Meaning
 Measurement Process Artificial
 Connection Concepts and Measures not real
 Measurement by fiat
 Differences in respondents interpretation
 No Connection between Research and Every Day
Life: Instruments
 Static view of Life: Analysis of Relationship
between variables

14. ◦ Ideal Typical Representation
◦ Variation or Differences
◦ Reverse operationalisation
◦ Inductive Conceptualisation: Factor Analysis

15. Questions Please

16. THANK YOU