What does 'operationalization' in research refer to?

Operationalization in research refers to the process of defining a concept so that it can be measured. This means taking abstract concepts and translating them into measurable variables or indicators. For example, if a researcher wants to study "happiness," they must define what happiness means in the context of their study and determine how it will be measured—whether through surveys, observational methods, or physiological indicators. This step is crucial because the way a concept is operationalized affects how data can be collected and interpreted.

By establishing clear definitions and measurement strategies, researchers ensure that their findings are valid and reliable, and that they can be accurately compared across different studies or contexts. Thus, operationalization lays the groundwork for effective data collection and subsequent analysis, which are all part of the broader research process.