2. • Operational Definition is the
definition of a variable in terms of the
actual procedures used by the
researcher to measure and/or
manipulate it.
• Similar to a ‘recipe,’ operational
definitions specify exactly how to
measure and/or manipulate the
variables in a study.
3. • Operationalizing is done by looking at
the behavioral dimensions, or properties
denoted by the concept. These are then
translated into
observable and measurable elements.
• Good operational definitions define
procedures precisely so that other
researchers can replicate the study.
4. • It defines or gives meaning to a variable
by spelling out what the investigator must
do to measure it (Kerlinger 1986).
Importance of OD:
- They permit investigators to measure
abstract concepts and constructs and
-permit researchers to permit move from
the level of constructs and theory to the
level of observation- (Ary 1985).
6. Types of Operational Definition
1)Measured Operational Definition:
Operations by which investigators may
measure a concept.
Example:
An actual (score) value from a test or
questionnaire the researchers would
develop to measure “hunger.”
7. Types of Operational Definition
2)Experimental Operational Definition:
Steps taken by a researcher to produce
certain experimental conditions.
Example:
A manipulated scenario to produce the
condition of “hunger.” (such as preventing
the subject from consuming anything for x
number of hours) .
