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The dependent variable (DV) is the “effect” or the
variable that gets affected. It changes as a result of changes
in the independent variable. Continuing from the previous
example, let's observe the implementation of various
dependent variables.

◊ Health outcomes (DV) can be influenced by dosage changes in
medication (IV).

◊ Students’ scores (DV) can be influenced by teaching methods (IV).

◊ Weight gain or loss (DV) can be influenced by diet (IV).

Now, we will look at two ‘secondary variables’ that are
commonly used in continuation with the above said variables.
They are Moderating variables and Mediating variables.

A moderating variable influences the relationship between
an independent variable (IV) and a dependent variable (DV).
It determines the strength and direction of this relationship,
affecting how much the IV impacts the DV or whether it leads
to a positive or negative connection. For instance, in a study
on the impact of sleep deprivation on academic performance,
gender could be a moderating variable to examine how men
and women respond differently to lack of sleep. It might reveal
that gender plays a role in determining the extent to which
students’ scores are affected by sleep deprivation. Mediating
Moderating variables help explain the link between the independent and
and mediating dependent variables. For instance, while studying the impact
variables of age on job satisfaction, education level could act as a
mediating variable. It clarifies why older individuals might
experience higher job satisfaction compared to younger ones,
as higher education levels may provide more experience and
better qualifications, leading to increased job satisfaction.
One needs to explain the theory supporting their study and
provide its definition. The theoretical framework helps the
research identify the actual problem and demonstrate how
variables influence one another.

Research Hypothesis
A research hypothesis is a statement that outlines an
expectation or prediction to be tested through research. A
An educated hypothesis represents an informed hunch or educated guess
guess about the potential relationship between variables under

study. It provides a tentative explanation that can be tested
through rigorous research. As the philosopher of science
Karl Popper argued, we can never truly prove a hypothesis

SGOU - SLM - Foundational Skills for Research and Writing 111