Learn how to define and measure time explicitly in your research

Deep Dive podcast: Learn how to define and measure time explicitly in your research

This podcast explains that time has been studied by physicists and philosophers. We can’t see it, touch it, or influence it. Yet, it is all around us—everywhere and always. Here are 5 takeaways on how to consider time explicitly in management and social science research:

1️⃣ Differentiate Temporal Constructs: Clearly define and differentiate between duration, frequency, timing, and sequence. This clarity helps develop precise hypotheses and robust research designs.
2️⃣ Use Longitudinal Methods: Adopt longitudinal designs instead of cross-sectional ones to capture the dynamics and changes of phenomena over time. This approach provides deeper insights into causal relationships and temporal patterns.
3️⃣ Measure Time Explicitly: Include time as a critical variable. Analyze how variables change over time by measuring aspects such as time lags, the duration of effects, and the frequency of events. This makes the study more comprehensive and accurate.
4️⃣ Balance Detail and Practicality: Balance the need for detailed, frequent measurements with practical considerations like participant burden and resource constraints. Pilot studies can help find the optimal measurement frequency and duration.
5️⃣ Formulate Temporally Specific Hypotheses: Develop temporally falsifiable hypotheses. Specify details such as the expected duration of an effect, the timing of an intervention, and the sequence of events to enhance the precision and testability of your research.