1. Research Methods in MIS
Dr. Deepak Khazanchi

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

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

4. 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

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

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

7. 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

8. 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.

9. 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

10. 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.

11. 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

12. 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

13. 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

14. 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