Terminology

• The Scientific Method

  A method of acquiring knowledge that uses observations to develop a hypothesis, and then uses the hypothesis to make logical predictions that can be empirically tested by making additional, systematic observations. Typically, the new observations lead to a new hypothesis, and the cycle continues.
• Induction/Inductive Reasoning

  Involves using a relatively small set of specific observations as the basis for forming a general statement about a larger set of possible observations.
• Variables

  Characteristics of conditions that change or have different values for different individuals.
• Hypothesis

  A statement that describes or explains a relation between or among variables.
• Deductive Reasoning

  A general statement as the basis for reaching a conclusion about specific examples.
• What Are The Five Steps of the Scientific Method

  1. Observe Behaviour or Other Phenomena
  2. Form a Tentative Answer or Explanation
  3. Use Hypothesis to Generate a Testable Prediction
  4. Evaluate the Prediction by Making Systematic, Planned Observations
  5. Use the Observations to Support, Refute, or Refine the Original Hypothesis.
• The Three Other Elements of Scientific Method

  1. Science is Empirical: The observations are structured so that the results will provide clear support or refute the hypothesis.
  2. Science is Public: This means that the scientific method makes observations available for evaluation by others.
  3. Science is Objective: The observations are structured so the researcher's biases and beliefs do not influence the outcome of the study.
• Pseudoscience

  A system of ideas often presented as science but is lacking some of the key components that are essential to scientific research.
• Quantitative Research

  Research that is based on measuring variables for individual participants or subjects to obtain scores, usually numerical values, that are submitted to statistical analyses for summary and interpretation.
• Qualitative Research

  Research based on making observations that are summarised and interpreted in a narrative report.