Answer:
hypothesis
Explanation:
Hypothesis: The term hypothesis is defined as an explanation or idea that an experimenter test via experimentation or study. A hypothesis is denoted as something less than a well-established theory and more than a random guess. It helps a researcher to better understand the area of study and gives a specific direction to a particular study.
Types: Simple hypothesis, null hypothesis, complex hypothesis, and logical hypothesis.
In the question above, Dr. Birk's prediction regarding students' self-perceptions is an example of a hypothesis.