Operational Definitions
Definition
An operational definition describes how to measure a variable or define a term. It outlines the procedures used in research.
Analogy
Think of operational definitions as cooking instructions for your favorite recipe. They tell you exactly what ingredients (variables) to use and how to prepare them (measurement).
Related terms
Validity: This refers to how well a test measures what it's supposed to measure - like checking if your dish tastes as it should according to the recipe.
Reliability: This is about consistency of measurement - if you follow the same recipe again, will you get the same result?
Replication: This involves repeating an experiment using the same methods but different subjects and experimenters, to see if similar results are obtained - like someone else trying out your recipe.
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