Last week, we practiced correlation analysis. In the following weeks, we will analyze the
model we have been working on to predict attendance or social media behavior. Before
we can examine our dataset using statistical methods, we need to establish and justify
our research model. Based on our understanding of correlation and modeling, we will
hypothesize the relationships among the variables of interest and create a model that we will test in the upcoming weeks.
Thus, this week, you will write your hypotheses and draw a figure that visualizes your
research model.
1. List all the variables that you will be analyzing again.
2. While you have previously identified the predictors of your outcome variable (i.e., attendance or social media behavior), you now need to identify which predictor is the IV
(independent variable), mediator, and/or moderator. Based on logical speculation and
literature review, hypothesize the roles of the variables (e.g., What is the IV, DV, mediator,
and moderator?). Paragraph(s) should lead to formulating hypotheses.
3. Draw the relations among the variables based on your hypotheses and report it in PR5.
Example of drawing relations among variables (see pages 90-91 for hypothesis
generation; and page 91 for the conceptual model):
2017_Sport Marketing Quarterly_26(2)_87-98.pdf
Tips on formulating hypotheses:
– In the first couple of sentences, describe the phenomenon that you are researching.
– Then, list and summarize a couple of previous studies that are related to this
phenomenon.
– Next, make a transition into highlighting and explaining how your construct can add
value (e.g., it could be additional insight; it could illuminate an overlooked aspect; it may
introduce a new construct; it may better explain the phenomenon) in studying this
phenomenon.
– Define the constructs.
– Make predictions about your constructs (i.e., explain your research model).
– Summarize your arguments to state your hypotheses.
– State your hypotheses
