The Scientific MethodThe Scientific Method

An approach to acquiring knowledge

Introduction to the Scientific Method

• What is the scientific method• Why is it important?• How is it used?• Stages of the process• How will we use it?

What is the scientific method?

• Logical plan for solving problems and drawing conclusions

• Foundation of the research process

Why is it important?

• Fact

• Theory

• Hypothesis

How is it used?

• Series of logical stages• Identify a problem•Form a hypothesis•Decide on procedure for testing•Collect and analyze data• Interpret results and derive a

conclusion

Identifying the problem

• Question needs to be answered

• Begin broad and narrow focus

• “The purpose of this study is……”

Form a hypothesis

• Hunch, prediction

• Expected results

Decide on procedure

• Who are the subjects?• What data will we collect?• How will we collect the data?

– Method– Form

• How will we analyze the data?

Collect & analyze the data

• Consistency in collection– Testing– Observation– Interview– Questionnaire

• Statistical analysis– Describe the data– Process the data– Compare the data (analysis)

Interpretation

• Form a meaningful conclusion

• What does the data mean?

• Relate back to the problem

Summary

• The research process is……

The application of the scientific method to answer a question or solve a problem.