⊿ Point. {R} Glossary. ◢ Keyword: O. ◥ University. {q} PhD. {tr} Training. ⚫ UK. ↂ EndNote. ☝️ Weerakkody. Operational definition. Defining a concept in terms of specific, replicable actions or procedures An operational definition specifies concrete, replicable procedures designed to represent a construct. In the words of American psychologist S.S. Stevens (1935), "An operation is the performance which we execute in order to make known a concept. "[1][2] For example, an operational definition of "fear" (the construct) often includes measurable physiologic responses that occur in response to a perceived threat.
Overview[edit] An operational definition is designed to model or represent a concept or theoretical definition, also known as a construct. Operational definitions are also used to define system states in terms of a specific, publicly accessible process of preparation or validation testing.[6] For example, 100 degrees Celsius may be operationally defined as the process of heating water at sea level until it is observed to boil. A cake can be operationally defined by a cake recipe.[7] Application[edit] Science[edit]