Introduction to Research Methods

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Questions and Answers

What characterizes a controlled experiment?

It relies on subjective measurements.

It allows all variables to fluctuate freely.

It maintains constant values for certain variables. (correct)

It utilizes random sampling methods.

What is essential for determining which variables must be controlled in an experiment?

Previous theoretical knowledge. (correct)

Observation without theoretical background.

Casual discussion among peers.

Trial and error methods.

Why is Engineer B's proposal considered rigorous scientific research?

It employs a calibrated RTD and accounts for uncertainty. (correct)

It measures without considering uncertainty.

It relies on anecdotal evidence from past experiments.

It uses an uncalibrated thermometer.

What is an example of a variable that must be controlled in a flat plate collector experiment?

Solar radiation. Signup and view all the answers

What is one critical step before conducting measurements in a rigorous experiment?

Calibrating all instruments. Signup and view all the answers

What is implied by the term 'uncertainty' in scientific measurements?

The potential error in measurement results. Signup and view all the answers

Why is Design B's measurement in the example considered less effective?

It was measured under uncontrolled conditions. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the scientific method is accurate in the context of energy research?

It is based on systematic and controlled experimentation. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes systematic experimentation?

Employing controlled and routine procedures Signup and view all the answers

Why is Engineer B’s research considered verifiable?

It contains detailed methodology and results Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between Engineer A and Engineer B's approaches to research?

Engineer B's research is peer-reviewed Signup and view all the answers

What main issue undermines Engineer A's claims about Design A?

Measurements conducted under inconsistent conditions Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'peer review' signify in scientific research?

Independent evaluation of research by experts Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true concerning Engineer A's research?

It lacks sufficient methodological details Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect is NOT a part of systematic experimentation?

Adjusting protocols each time Signup and view all the answers

What is a major benefit of verifiable experimentation?

It facilitates replication and confirmation of results Signup and view all the answers

What type of research involves the development of new theories?

Experimentation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of scientific research?

Must be based on opinion Signup and view all the answers

Which philosopher is associated with Rationalism in the context of epistemology?

René Descartes Signup and view all the answers

Which process is considered not research?

Searching for hard-to-locate information Signup and view all the answers

What does the Causality Principle relate to in scientific research?

Universality of knowledge Signup and view all the answers

Which branch of philosophy investigates the methods and validity of knowledge?

Epistemology Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of secret research?

Military research that is classified Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a tenet of empiricism according to historical theories of knowledge?

Experience is the source of all knowledge Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of engineering research according to the outlined objectives?

Benefitting humanity through practical outcomes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes basic research?

It is undertaken without a specific application or use in mind. Signup and view all the answers

Which objective is NOT part of engineering research activities as outlined?

The research must draw exclusively from prior scientific studies Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes applied research from basic research?

It is intended for immediate practical application. Signup and view all the answers

Engineering is defined as which of the following?

The application of scientific principles to realistic systems for human benefit Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered in engineering research objectives?

Economical factors Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the peer review process in research?

It ensures the validity and quality of published results. Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, which type of research is most aligned with developing immediate applications?

Applied Research Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary aim of Engineering Research and Development?

To achieve a specific practical objective Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines 'Experimental development'?

Work drawing from research to produce new knowledge or improve products Signup and view all the answers

What is NOT a function of development in the context of research?

Conducting exploratory studies without application Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'systematic use of knowledge' imply in the context of development?

Structured methodology for applying research findings Signup and view all the answers

According to Moris, what is essential in producing new products or processes?

Drawing from both research and practical experience Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key component of Engineering Research?

Designing and developing prototypes Signup and view all the answers

What aspect is emphasized in the definitions provided by Moris regarding research and development?

Practical application and systematic approach Signup and view all the answers

Which term best describes the outcomes of Engineering Research according to the definitions?

Creation of useful materials and systems Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

What's Research?

Research is a systematic investigation to acquire new knowledge.
The research outcome should be a contribution to the body of knowledge.

What's NOT Research?

Gathering information, rummaging for information, transferring facts, and secret research are not considered research.

What's Scientific Research?

Controlled Experimentation - Experiments that fix constant values for certain variables.
Rigorous Experimentation - Experiments that use the best methods available, calibrate experimental apparatus, and describe results with uncertainties.
Systematic Experimentation - Experiments that use the same procedures, protocols, and standards.
Verifiable Experimentation - Experiments that can be replicated by a third party. Results are published and validated through a peer review process.

What's Engineering Research?

Engineering is the application of science to real-world systems for the benefit of humankind.
Engineering research is based on the principles of scientific research, which is based on the scientific method.
Engineering research activities must fulfill the following objectives:
- Applied to human systems
- Practical outcomes
- Benefits humankind
- Ethically based
- Considers environmental outcomes
- Based on standard industry-based testing

Types of Research

Basic Research: Experimental or theoretical work to acquire new knowledge without any specific application in mind.
Applied Research: Original investigation to acquire new knowledge that can be applied to practical situations.

Research Questions

Research questions are used to guide the direction of research and determine the scope and focus.
These questions should be clear, specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound.

Epistemology

Epistemology is the branch of philosophy that studies the theory of knowledge.
It focuses on methods of acquiring knowledge, validity, scope, and the distinction between justified belief and opinion.
Two opposing theories emerged in the Middle Ages:
- Rationalism: Knowledge is gained through reason and logic.
- Empiricism: Knowledge is gained through sensory experience and observations.

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of research, highlighting what qualifies as research and what does not. It also distinguishes between scientific and engineering research, emphasizing the importance of systematic and verifiable experimentation in producing reliable knowledge.