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Introduction To The Science and Scientific Method

The document discusses the scientific method, outlining its key characteristics and goals. The scientific method relies on empirical observation and replicable experiments to systematically test hypotheses. The goals of scientific research are described as description, prediction, and explanation/understanding.

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Abrar Ahmad
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28 views

Introduction To The Science and Scientific Method

The document discusses the scientific method, outlining its key characteristics and goals. The scientific method relies on empirical observation and replicable experiments to systematically test hypotheses. The goals of scientific research are described as description, prediction, and explanation/understanding.

Uploaded by

Abrar Ahmad
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Research Methodology Notes by Mr.

Abrar

Introduction to the Science and Scientific


Method
Introduction:

Science is defined as the observation, identification, description, experimental


investigation, and theoretical explanation of natural phenomena.

The scientific method is a standardized method used by psychologists to test hypotheses,


build on theories, and gain knowledge about the mind and behavior. The scientific
method was first outlined by Sir Francis Bacon to provide logical, rational problem
solving across many scientific fields.

Purpose of scientific Method:

Scientific method is use to seek knowledge that involves forming and testing a
hypothesis. This is used to answer questions in a wide range of disciplines outside of
science, including business. Scientific method provides a logical, systematic way to
answer questions. More specifically, it is the technique used in the construction and
testing of a scientific hypothesis. Scientific method is an experimental method. The
purpose of this experiment is to determine whether observations agree with or conflict
with the expectations deduced from a hypothesis.
Research Methodology Notes by Mr. Abrar

Characteristics of Scientific Method:


There are 5 main characteristics of scientific method are as follows:

 Empirical Observation
 Replicable Experiments
 Provisional Results
 Objective Approach
 Systematic Observation

(I) Empirical Observation


The scientific method is empirical. It means, it relies on direct observation of
the world, and check if hypotheses is correct or not. This method contrasts with
other methods that rely on pure reason and also with methods that rely on
emotional or other subjective factors.

(II) Replicable Experiments


Scientific experiments are replicable. It means if another person duplicates the
experiment, he or she will get the same results. Scientists are supposed to
publish enough of their method so that another person, with appropriate
training, could replicate the results.

(III) Provisional Results


Results obtained through the scientific method are provisional; they are open to
question and debate. If new data arise that contradicts a theory, that theory
must be modified. For example, the phlogiston theory of fire and combustion
was rejected when evidence against it arose.

(IV) Objective Approach


The scientific method is objective. It relies on facts and on the world as it is, rather
than on beliefs, wishes or desires. Scientists attempt to remove their biases when
making observations.

(V) Systematic Observation


The scientific method is systematic; that is, it relies on carefully planned studies
rather than on random or haphazard observation. Nevertheless, science can begin
from some random observation.
Research Methodology Notes by Mr. Abrar

Goals of Scientific Method:

Many researchers agree that the goals of scientific research are: description, prediction,
and explanation/understanding. Some individuals add control and application to the list
of goals. The Goals of scientific method are as follows:

Description:

The first and most basic goal of science is to describe. Description refers to the
procedures used to define, classify and categorize subjects and their relationships. This
goal is achieved by making careful observations. Descriptions are systematic and precise.
Descriptions allow us to establish generalizations and universals by gathering information
on a large group of people. For Example, a researcher can describe the average member
or the average performance of a member of the specific group after being studied about
them or doing survey on that particular group.

Prediction:

The second goal of science is to predict. After developing descriptions, researchers make
predictions. Predictions are sometimes made in the form of hypotheses, which are
tentative, testable predictions concerning the relationships between or among variables.
The prediction is a statement of the expected results of the experiment based on the
hypothesis. The prediction is often an "if/then statement." For example: If increasing
fertilizer increases number of beans, then coffee bean plants treated with more fertilizer
will have more beans.

Predictions provide a reference point for the scientist. If predictions are confirmed, the
scientist has supported the hypothesis. If the predictions are not supported, the hypothesis
is falsified.

Explanation/Understanding:
The most important goal of scientific research is explanation. Explanation is achieved
when the cause or causes of a phenomenon are identified.

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