Understanding Hard Science and Research Methods

Hard Science

• Defined by its reliance on empirical evidence and established methods.
• Disciplines include physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences.
• Emphasizes quantitative data, reproducibility, and mathematical modeling.
• Experiments are often controlled and can be repeated by other researchers.

Characteristics of Research

• Systematic: Follows a structured plan or methodology.
• Objective: Aims to minimize biases and personal opinions.
• Empirical: Based on observable and measurable evidence.
• Replicable: Findings should be repeatable by others using the same methods.
• Critical: Involves rigorous analysis and questioning of results.

Components of Research

1. Research Problem: The question or issue being investigated.
2. Literature Review: Summary of existing research and theories related to the topic.
3. Hypothesis: A proposed explanation or prediction that can be tested.
4. Methodology: The approach and techniques used for data collection and analysis.
5. Data Collection: Gathering empirical evidence through experiments, surveys, or observations.
6. Analysis: Interpreting data to determine trends, patterns, or relationships.
7. Conclusion: Summary of findings, implications, and potential for future research.

Testable Questions

• Can be answered through empirical investigation and experimentation.
• Typically framed as "What is the effect of [X] on [Y]?"
• Examples:
  • "Does increasing temperature affect the solubility of salt in water?"
  • "What is the impact of sleep duration on cognitive performance?"

Non-Testable Questions

• Cannot be answered through empirical data or experimentation.
• Often philosophical, subjective, or based on personal beliefs.
• Examples:
  • "What is the meaning of life?"
  • "Is democracy the best form of government?"

Hard Science

• Relies on empirical evidence and established scientific methods.
• Encompasses disciplines such as physics, chemistry, biology, and earth sciences.
• Prioritizes quantitative data, ensuring results can be numerically analyzed.
• Experimentation is controlled and findings can be reproduced by others.

Characteristics of Research

• Systematic: Adheres to a structured approach or established methodology.
• Objective: Strives to eliminate biases and subjective interpretations.
• Empirical: Grounded in observable and measurable information.
• Replicable: Research outcomes should be repeatable by independent researchers using the same techniques.
• Critical: Involves thorough analysis and questioning of research findings.

Components of Research

• Research Problem: Central question or issue prompting the investigation.
• Literature Review: Overview of current research and theories relevant to the topic.
• Hypothesis: Testable prediction or explanation that can guide the research.
• Methodology: Strategy detailing the techniques for data collection and analysis.
• Data Collection: Process of gathering empirical evidence through methods like experiments, surveys, or observations.
• Analysis: Examination of collected data to identify trends, patterns, or correlations.
• Conclusion: Summation of research findings, including implications and avenues for future studies.

Testable Questions

• Formulated to be answered through empirical research and experimentation.
• Commonly structured as "What is the effect of [X] on [Y]?"
• Illustrative examples include:
  • "Does increasing temperature affect the solubility of salt in water?"
  • "What is the impact of sleep duration on cognitive performance?"

Non-Testable Questions

• Cannot be explored through empirical data or experimental methods.
• Often pertain to philosophical inquiries, subjective viewpoints, or personal beliefs.
• Examples include:
  • "What is the meaning of life?"
  • "Is democracy the best form of government?"