Question

To test this explanation, a researcher must state it in terms of a testable question known as a ______________.

Short answer

The answer is Hypothesis.

Step-by-step solution

Define The Concept

The first step is to understand the content given. In the context of scientific research, after building a theoretical framework, researchers typically try to form a testable question.

Recognition

Given the concepts explained above the testable question in scientific research is termed as 'Hypothesis'.

Confirm and Correct

We can now confirm the answer as 'Hypothesis', that is the term used to describe a testable question in research.

Key concepts

Scientific Research

Scientific research is a systematic pursuit of knowledge involving the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data to answer a question or solve a problem. It follows a methodological approach to ensure the results are reliable and can be reproduced by others in the field.

Central to scientific research is the formulation of a hypothesis, or a proposed explanation for a phenomenon, which must be both testable and falsifiable. Researchers use various methods, including experiments, surveys, and observational studies, to collect data that either support or refute the hypothesis. The results of these investigations contribute to the wider body of scientific knowledge and may lead to further questions or research.

Testable Question

A testable question is one that can be answered through empirical investigation and evidence. It's formulated in a way that allows researchers to carry out experiments and make observations to determine its validity.

To craft a testable question, scientists must ensure that it is specific, measurable, and able to be answered with data. For example, rather than asking a broad question like 'Do plants grow?', a testable question would be 'Does the presence of sunlight affect the growth rate of bean plants?'. This latter question can lead to a hypothesis and an experiment with observable, measurable results.

Theoretical Framework

The theoretical framework is the structure that can support or hold the theory of a research study. It introduces and describes the theory that explains why the research problem under study exists.

Thus, the theoretical framework involves a well-structured set of concepts and their definitions, existing theory or theories that pertain to your particular study. It allows researchers to succinctly explain the rationale for their study and how they will investigate their hypotheses. The theoretical framework leads to the formulation of hypotheses that will be tested to confirm or refute the theory, driving the research forward.