2. • Operational Definition is the definition of a
variable in terms of the actual procedures
used by the researcher to measure and/or
manipulate it.
• Similar to a ‘recipe,’ operational definitions
specify exactly how to measure and/or
manipulate the variables in a study.
3. • Operationalizing is done by looking at the
behavioral dimensions, or properties denoted
by the concept. These are then translated into
observable and measurable elements.
• Good operational definitions define
procedures precisely so that other researchers
can replicate the study.
4. • It defines or gives meaning to a variable by
spelling out what the investigator must do to
measure it (Kerlinger 1986).
Importance of OD:
- They permit investigators to measure abstract
concepts and constructs and
-permit researchers to permit move from the
level of constructs and theory to the level of
observation- (Ary 1985).
6. Types of Operational Definition
1)Measured Operational Definition:
Operations by which investigators may
measure a concept.
Example:
An actual (score) value from a test or
questionnaire the researchers would develop
to measure “hunger.”
7. Types of Operational Definition
2)Experimental Operational Definition:
Steps taken by a researcher to produce certain
experimental conditions.
Example:
A manipulated scenario to produce the
condition of “hunger.” (such as preventing the
subject from consuming anything for x
number of hours) .
