Research Methods in MIS Dr. Deepak Khazanchi

Steps in The Research Process Review Research Ethics Theory Formulation Concepts, Constructs, Variables, and Relationships

The Building Blocks of Theory Concepts Constructs Definitions Variables Propositions and Hypotheses Theories Models

Understanding Concepts A concept is a bundle of meanings or characteristics associated with certain events, objects, conditions, situations, and behaviors Concepts have been developed over time through shared usage

Understanding Concepts The success of research hinges on: how clearly we conceptualize how well others understand the concepts we use

What is a Construct? An image or idea specifically invented for a given research and/or theory-building purpose

What is a Variable? A factor, phenomenon or characteristic that has more than one value or category, either quantitative or qualitative. If a characteristic has only one value, it is a constant, not a variable. Identifying Variables User Information Satisfaction, Color of Monitor, Number of Units Sold, Decision Quality, Computer Abuse, Ease of Use, Attitude towards Usage, Decision Making Satisfaction, End User Computing Satisfaction, Task-Technology Fit

Types of Variables Dependent The outcome, effect, consequence or output of some input variable. The research problem often comes about by considering the dependent variable.

Types of Variables (cont’d) Independent The input or antecedent variable Presumed cause of the dependent variable Manipulated, measured or selected prior to measuring the outcome or dependent variable Independent/Dependent categorization is most useful in experimental research; however, even if one is looking for correlations, it is always useful to think in terms of independent and dependent variables

Types of Variables (cont’d) Moderating Another independent variable which is hypothesized to modify the relationship between the dependent and independent variable E.g., Demographic variables such as age, experience Extraneous/Control Infinite number of such variables that might conceivably affect a given relationship These variables are generally Controlled (“effects cancelled out”) by eliminating the variable, holding the variable constant or using statistical methods.

Types of Variables (cont’d Intervening A variable which is hypothesized to exist but cannot be observed, measured or manipulated; It is presumed to occur to explain the relationship between the independent and dependent variable

Variables: Operational Definitions A statement which defines a variable by specifying the operations used to measure and manipulate it. Vs. Conceptual definitions (more dictionary like) Variable in research Problem: Computer usage Labeling the variable: Attitudes towards computer usage Operational Definition: An individual’s score on the attitudes towards computer usage instrument

Describing the Theoretical Framework for your Research Important foundation for a research project and requires: identifying and operationally defining all variables Establishing logical relationships among variables Explaining the basis and potential direction of the relationships Must be solidly grounded in literature survey (a priori research) A diagrammatic model of the variables of interest and their relationship

The Value of a Theory Narrows the range of facts we need to study Suggests which research approaches will yield the greatest meaning Summarizes what is known about an object of study Predicts further facts that should be found