Key Principles of Research and the Scientific Method

What is research?

A systematic study of a trend or event that involves careful collection.

What is the importance of research?

It increases human knowledge.

What does 'systematic' mean in the context of research?

It entails that the procedure implemented to start an investigation follows a logical structure.

What does 'controlled' mean when exploring causality in research?

It means setting up the study in a way that minimizes the effect of other factors affecting the relationship between two variables.

What does 'rigorous' imply about research procedures?

Research must be thorough in ensuring that the procedures followed to obtain answers are relevant, appropriate, and justified.

What does it mean for research to be valid and verifiable?

It means that whatever the researcher concludes based on findings is correct and can be verified.

What does 'empirical' mean in research?

Research based on direct experience or observation by the researchers.

What does 'critical' refer to in the context of research?

It refers to research exhibiting careful and precise evaluation.

Why is accuracy important in research?

It ensures that the research is valid and generalizable.

What is replicability in research design?

It allows research designs to be replicated to enable the researcher to arrive at valid and conclusive results.

What are the steps of the scientific method?

1. Make an observation 2. Ask a question 3. Develop a hypothesis 4. Test prediction 5. Analyze results 6. Record results against hypothesis 7. Make a conclusion.