Scientific Method

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Contents

Introduction  (?)
The natural sciences generally employ systematic approaches to research, especially when conducting empirical research. These are procedures that scientists use to gain knowledge about the physical universe based on the premise of cause and effect. The "scientific method" is a generic term that is used to describe a template for empirical research. This template is an approach to problem solving characterized by hypothesis formation and testing. While seen as a process that is the basis for scientific inquiry, it is a set of rules used to guide science, not a precise and complete methodology. There is no single methodology that is applicable to every research effort.

It is an approach to knowledge that uses empirical data to verify hypotheses, rather than intuitive processes alone. Some of the methods of science involve intuitive processes to a greater degree. Logic can be drawing inferences, inductions, or deductions from hypotheses, or thinking out the logical implications of causal relationships in terms of necessary or sufficient conditions. Some of the methods are empirical, such as making observations, designing controlled experiments, or designing instruments to use in collecting data. The template of the scientific method follows a series of steps, usually considered four in number: observation, hypothesis, experimentation, and conclusion.

The observation step could include:

  • Recognition of phenomena involved
  • Identification and formulation of a problem
  • Results of previous experiments can lend help
  • Induction and deduction can be employed

The hypothesis step could include:

  • Formulation of testable hypotheses that attempts to explain these phenomena
  • A proposed solution to problem or offer predictions of phenomena
  • Must be verifiable through testing
  • Consistency with the body of knowledge available, presuming it is reliable

The experimentation step could include:

  • Formation and execution of experimentation to validate or invalidate the hypothesis
  • Predicative power of hypothesis should be tested by experiment
  • Observations of natural phenomena are fundamental
  • Result of experiments should be repeatable
  • Systematic and controlled observation of operationally defined phenomena
  • Collect and analyze the data
  • Testing of these hypotheses by noting whether or not they adequately predict and describe new phenomena or the results of new experiments
  • Data collection using accurate and precise instrumentation, valid and reliable measures, and objective reporting of results

The conclusion step could include:

  • Hypothesis evaluation
  • Usually using inductive logic - applying specific results and data to draw general conclusions about the subject being studied
  • Whether experiment validates or invalidates hypothesis
  • Hypothesis modified, rejected, or replaced if not confirmed by observations and experiments
  • Hypothesis modified, or unchanged, if confirmed by observations and experiments

The scientific method is a process that forms a basis for modern science. This method is a result of what is known historically as the "Scientific Revolution." Sir Francis Bacon, Galileo, John Locke, Auguste Comte, and many others have made significant contributions to develop what we know today as the Scientific Method.

Type  (?)

Theoria, Praxis

Level  (?)

ALL (Undergraduate, Graduate, Doctorate, Postdoctorate)

Definition  (?)

Study the history and development of methods employed by science.

Objectives  (?)

  • Become familiar with methods of substantiating knowledge.
  • Explore new methods to gather and substantiate knowledge.

Questions  (?)

  • What are the methods of scientific inquiry?
  • What are the epistemilogical reasons for employing such a method?
  • Who has been instrumental in formulating our current model of the scientific method?

Keywords  (?)

scientific method, observation, hypothesis, experiment, conclusion, science, natural science, empirical study

Monographs  (?)

Scientific Method in Practice, Hugh G. Gauch, Jr., ISBN 0521017084

eResources  (?)

Criticism  (?)

Scientific Method is an inefficient means of knowledge construction.

Status  (?)

Current & Active

  • William Dembski, ISCID
  • Paul Nelson, Discovery Institute

Extend  (?)

Is there a way to take these basic principles and formulate more effective methods for specific research applications?

Related  (?)

Notes  (?)

Field(s)  (?)

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