Chapter 1

• Empiricism (empirical method/research) = using evidence from the senses/instruments that assist the senses as the basis for conclusions
• Theory data cycle – scientists collect data to test, change or update their theories

  Create situations that might prove theories wrong
• Theory = set of statements that describe the general principles about how variables relate to another
• Hypothesis (prediction) = specific outcome the researcher will observe in a study if the theory is accurate
• Data = set of observations
• Replication = study conducted again – is result consistent
• Falsifiability – Popper (1963) = feature of a scientific theory in which it is possible to collect data that will indicate that the theory is wrong
• Merton (1942) - Scientific norms

  1. Universalism - Scientific claims are evaluating according to their merit not the researchers credentials or reputation
• Merton (1942) - Scientific norms

  2. Communality - Scientific knowledge is created by a community + its findings belong to the community
• Merton (1942) – Scientific norms

  3. disinterestedness - Scientists stive to discover the truth – not swayed by conviction, idealism, politics or profit
• Merton (1942) – Scientific norms

  4. Organised skepticism - Scientists question everything including their own theories
• Applied research – done with a practical problem in mind – researchers conduct their work in a local real-world context
• Basic research – enhances general body of knowledge
• Translational research – use of lessons from basic research to develop and test applications to health care/treatment/interventions