Research Hypothesis

Hypothesis are conjectural statements of relationships between two or more variables. These
statements are based on existing information and are tested experimentally or empirically.
All hypotheses are generally stated in null form, except for experimental studies in which they
are tested in alternative form. Examples of null hypotheses are:
1. There is no significant difference between achievement scores of the central and barrio
school pupils.
2. There is no relationship between teachers’ job performance and their level of education.

Removing the word NO in the above hypotheses would transform them into alternative
hypothesis.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This section contains literature that are in some way related to the study. The literature can
be either conceptual literature or research literature. Conceptual literature are those that you
obtain from textbook, general references, journals, and the like. For instance, the definition of
cooperative learning as expounded by different educational psychologists is an example of
conceptual literature. In contrast, the research literature are those results of studies and researches
conducted by other researchers. Citing the findings of an experiment made by a researcher on
cooperative learning is an example of research literature.
The review of related literature is a logical abstract of your readings. Using a well organized
topic or thematic outline, weave around themes or topics that have emerged from reading the
literature. It is suggested that the headings displaying the themes should be precise, descriptive of
the contents, and should follow a logical progression.
For instance, in the study “Level of Management Competence and Job Performance of
Middle Level Managers of Local Government Units in Cagayan,” the review could be outlined under
the following headings:

Concepts and Theories of Management

Management Functions: Planning, Leading, Organizing and Controlling
Factor Affecting Management
Job Performance
Indicators of Job Performance
Relationship Between Management Competence and Job Performance

Only literature which are related in purpose, method, or finding to the current study should
be included in the review. Another consideration in the choice of literature is recency, that is, the
conceptual and research literature are within the past 10 years at the time of writing the report.
However, in cases where the study attempts to trace the development of a theory, the use of
literature written earlier is allowed.
The discussion of such studies should be in the form of a brief critical analysis of the
purposes, method of the study, principal findings, and conclusions. Clarify the interrelationships of
the studies reviewed. Point out the weaknesses and strengths of the study.
Towards the end of the review, summarize or synthesize the review and point out how each
of the studies reviewed relates to the problem at hand. Show the similarities and differences. Your
findings should not be presented here yet. Highlight on the research gaps and issues that lead you
to identify the problem area.

Shella B. Cacatian, Ph. D

CSU-Sanchez Mira