Operational definition意思

Operational definition, also known as an operationalization, is a clear and detailed description of a variable or concept that is used in a scientific or research study. It defines how a variable will be measured or observed in practice, rather than providing a theoretical or abstract definition.

For example, in a study on the effectiveness of a new teaching method, the variable "student learning" might be operationally defined as the increase in scores on a standardized test before and after the implementation of the new teaching method. This definition provides a clear and measurable way to assess the impact of the teaching method on student learning.

Operational definitions are important in research because they ensure that the variables being studied can be consistently and reliably measured, which is necessary for the results of the study to be valid and reliable.