Chapter 7: Research Questions and Hypotheses

In quantitative research, questions and hypotheses articulate predicted relationships among variables, with hypotheses tested through statistical analysis to make inferences about populations. Quantitative questions may be descriptive, focusing on single variables, or inferential, exploring relationships or group comparisons. Researchers formulate null hypotheses predicting no effect or relationship and alternative hypotheses predicting specific directional outcomes, using language that conveys causal or correlational intent such as affect, influence, or predict. Qualitative research employs open-ended questions rather than hypotheses because the goal is phenomenon exploration rather than outcome prediction. Qualitative studies typically structure inquiry around one or two central questions addressing the core phenomenon and five to seven sub-questions that subdivide the central phenomenon into manageable components. The phrasing of qualitative questions emphasizes exploratory language beginning with what or how rather than why, and the questions themselves remain fluid and subject to revision as understanding deepens through participant interaction. Different qualitative approaches require tailored questioning strategies, such as cultural focus in ethnographic studies, lived experience emphasis in phenomenological inquiry, or theory generation in grounded theory research. Mixed methods research integrates all three question types: quantitative questions with hypotheses, qualitative exploratory questions, and a distinctive mixed methods question that articulates how combining both data types answers the overarching research purpose. The mixed methods question addresses the integration strategy and intent behind combining approaches, whether merging datasets, connecting phases sequentially, or using one strand to build upon the other. Understanding these distinctions enables researchers to align their questioning approach with their chosen methodology and ensures that questions function as coherent guides for reader comprehension and research implementation.