Critical reasoning — identify implicit assumptions: Statement: “I would like to study the impact of pay revision on job satisfaction of employees,” A tells B. Assumptions: I. Job satisfaction can be measured. II. A has the necessary competence to undertake such a study.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: Only assumption I is implicit

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Research intent statements imply certain baseline conditions about what is being studied. Here, A wishes to study how pay revision affects job satisfaction. We must identify which assumptions must hold for the intention to be meaningful.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Intent: Study the impact of pay revision on job satisfaction.
  • Assumption I: Job satisfaction is a measurable construct (through scales, surveys, indices).
  • Assumption II: A possesses the competence to conduct the study.


Concept / Approach:
To propose a study, at minimum the outcome variable (job satisfaction) must be measurable; otherwise impact cannot be assessed. However, the mere expression of intent does not require proving A’s competence. One can desire to study a topic while still needing training or assistance.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Check I via negation: If job satisfaction could not be measured, assessing impact would be impossible. Thus I is necessary.Check II via negation: Even if A currently lacks competence, stating the wish to study remains coherent; A could collaborate or learn. Therefore II is not necessary for the statement to make sense.Hence, only Assumption I is implicit.


Verification / Alternative check:
Consider common HR research practice: validated instruments (for example, Likert-type scales) are widely used to quantify satisfaction. Feasibility rests on measurement, not on the current qualifications of the person expressing interest.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Only II / Either / Both: These overstate what the statement presumes about the speaker.
  • Neither: Overlooks the essential measurability of the construct.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the preconditions for proposing a study (measurability) with the researcher’s personal credentials, which are relevant to execution but not to the logical coherence of the stated intent.



Final Answer:
Only assumption I is implicit

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