The scientific method can be described as a common process for acquiring a great deal of information or knowledge which often times allows us to obtain information that is more accurate by both objective and systematic observation. The scientific method consists of five steps, the first of which is to identify the issue or problem and form a hypothesis. The second step involved in the scientific method is to design a study in order to explore and examine the issue or problem and test the hypothesis. The third step involves conducting the study. The fourth step is to analyze as well as interpret the data acquired (testing the hypothesis). The final step of the scientific method is to then communicate the results acquired through the research that was conducted (McIntire & Miller, 2007).
There are several methods involved in collecting information with the scientific method. Such methods can be categorized into either experimental research techniques or descriptive or correlation-based research techniques. Experimental research techniques generally help us determine a cause and effect relationship, while descriptive research techniques help us when describing a phenomenon or situation. For instance, most surveys are based on descriptive techniques. They are used in order to describe or many times compare a situation. A class evaluation is a great example as it could indicate that your professor was quite effective or even could indicate that while your information technology professor was effective, it appears that your psychology professor was more effective (McIntire & Miller, 2007).
An example of using the scientific method would be when testing products such as cosmetics on animals. Before conducting research, scientists have a hypothesis that the cosmetic product will not be harmful to people and in order to test their hypothesis; the product is tested on animals. Based on the animal’s reaction to the product, the scientist can conclude whether or not their hypothesis that the product was not harmful was accurate or not.
Another example could be as follows:
Hypothesis: Men are more likely than women to support the death penalty.
I could then conduct a study that involved administering a survey to a large group of men and a large group of women (the groups would be equal). I would make sure that the men and women in the groups were of various ethnic backgrounds and from varying economic classes. The survey could include numerous questions regarding the death penalty and whether or not it is fair and ethical. Once the study was conducted, I would then analyze and interpret the data by comparing the women’s answers from the men’s answers. If, for example, the results of the survey showed that men and women answered the questions in a comparable manner, then I would have to conclude that my hypothesis was inaccurate and would conclude that men are not more likely than women to support the death penalty.
Reference:
McIntire, S. A. & Miller, L. A. (2007). Foundations of psychological testing: a practical approach. 2nd ed. Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage Publications.
