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Learning ObjectivesBy the end of this module, you will be able to:
The Scientific Method consists of observing the world around you and creating a hypothesis about relationships in the world. A hypothesis is an informed and educated prediction or explanation about something. Part of the research process involves testing the hypothesis, and then examining the results of these tests as they relate to both the hypothesis and the world around you. When a researcher forms a hypothesis, this acts like a map through the research study. It tells the researcher which factors are important to study and how they might be related to each other or caused by a manipulation that the researcher introduces (e.g. a program, treatment or change in the environment). With this map, the researcher can interpret the information he/she collects and can make sound conclusions about the results. Research can be done with human beings, animals, plants, other organisms and inorganic matter. When research is done with human beings and animals, it must follow specific rules about the treatment of humans and animals that have been created by the U.S. Federal Government. This ensures that humans and animals are treated with dignity and respect, and that the research causes minimal harm. No matter what topic is being studied, the value of the research depends on how well it is designed and done. Therefore, one of the most important considerations in doing good research is to follow the design or plan that is developed by an experienced researcher who is called the Principal Investigator (PI). The PI is in charge of all aspects of the research and creates what is called a protocol (the research plan) that all people doing the research must follow. By doing so, the PI and the public can be sure that the results of the research are real and useful to other scientists. Module 1: Discussion Questions
Why research is called systematic study or investigation?Generally, research is the organised and systematic method of finding answers to questions. It is systematic because it is a process broken up into clear steps that lead to conclusions. Research is organised because there is a planned structure or method used to reach the conclusion.
What do you call a systematic investigation into a topic and a study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusion?Research means a systematic investigation designed to develop or establish principles, facts generalizable knowledge, or any combination of them, and includes the development, testing and evaluation of research.
What do you call a systematic investigation that requires you to study the materials and sources you gathered about any topic discipline or interest?Defining research
The Oxford English Dictionary defines research as “The systematic investigation into and study of materials and sources in order to establish facts and reach new conclusions”.
What is the name of the systematic process used in research?Scientific research involves a systematic process that focuses on being objective and gathering a multitude of information for analysis so that the researcher can come to a conclusion.
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