Scribd
Upload
80 views

Basic Research Methods - Notes

The document discusses basic research methods and the scientific method. It outlines five steps for developing a basic research proposal: 1) identifying the problem and objectives, 2) searching for evidence in the literature, 3) identifying knowledge gaps, 4) formulating a proposal, and 5) setting measurement details for implementation. It also describes five key characteristics of the scientific method: relying on empirical observation, conducting replicable experiments, obtaining provisional results open to debate, taking an objective approach, and making systematic observations.

Uploaded by

Thea Santiago
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
80 views

Basic Research Methods - Notes

The document discusses basic research methods and the scientific method. It outlines five steps for developing a basic research proposal: 1) identifying the problem and objectives, 2) searching for evidence in the literature, 3) identifying knowledge gaps, 4) formulating a proposal, and 5) setting measurement details for implementation. It also describes five key characteristics of the scientific method: relying on empirical observation, conducting replicable experiments, obtaining provisional results open to debate, taking an objective approach, and making systematic observations.

Uploaded by

Thea Santiago
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 2

Basic Research Methods

Introduction

 Where there is scientific evidence, there is measurement and whatever we can measure, we can
evaluate
 Likert scale – Cronbach’s alpha

1. identifying the problem, objectives, situating the idea in the health systems framework

2. Searching for evidence (learning literature types and doing the search)

3. Identifying knowledge gaps

4. formulating a basic research proposal

5. setting the measurement details *Implementation

In developing our understanding of evidence, to generate a working knowledge of our areas of concern,
we must be able to distinguish type of literature for each block, the type of metrics, and the type of
methodology.

Five Characteristics of the Scientific Method


Empirical Observation

The scientific method is empirical. That is, it relies on direct observation of the world, and disdains
hypotheses that run counter to observable fact. This contrasts with methods that rely on pure reason
(including that proposed by Plato) and with methods that rely on emotional or other subjective factors.

Replicable Experiments

Scientific experiments are replicable. That is, if another person duplicates the experiment, he or she will
get the same results. Scientists are supposed to publish enough of their method so that another person,
with appropriate training, could replicate the results. This contrasts with methods that rely on
experiences that are unique to a particular individual or a small group of individuals.

Provisional Results

Results obtained through the scientific method are provisional; they are (or ought to be) open to
question and debate. If new data arise that contradict a theory, that theory must be modified. For
example, the phlogiston theory of fire and combustion was rejected when evidence against it arose.

Objective Approach

The scientific method is objective. It relies on facts and on the world as it is, rather than on beliefs,
wishes or desires. Scientists attempt (with varying degrees of success) to remove their biases when
making observations.
Systematic Observation

Strictly speaking, the scientific method is systematic; that is, it relies on carefully planned studies rather
than on random or haphazard observation. Nevertheless, science can begin from some random
observation. Isaac Asimov said that the most exciting phrase to hear in science is not "Eureka!" but
"That's funny." After the scientist notices something funny, he or she proceeds to investigate it
systematically.

You might also like