The Scientific Method
A systematic process for acquiring knowledge about the natural world.
The scientific method is an empirical method of acquiring knowledge that has characterized the development of science since at least the 17th century. It involves careful observation, applying rigorous skepticism about what is observed, given that cognitive assumptions can distort how one interprets the observation.
It involves making conjectures (hypotheses), deriving predictions from them as logical consequences, and then carrying out experiments or empirical observations based on those predictions.
- Type: Science Framework
- Core Idea: Empirical Knowledge Acquisition
- Key Elements: Observation, Hypothesis, Experimentation, Conclusion
The Steps of the Scientific Method
A structured approach to scientific inquiry.
Observation
The first step of the scientific method is to make an observation about something that you are curious about. This could be anything from a simple observation to a complex problem.
Hypothesis
Based on your observation, you will formulate a hypothesis, which is a testable explanation for your observation. A good hypothesis is specific and falsifiable.
Experimentation
The next step is to design and conduct an experiment to test your hypothesis. The experiment should be designed to be a fair test, and it should be repeatable.
Conclusion
After you have conducted your experiment, you will analyze your data and draw a conclusion. Your conclusion should state whether your hypothesis was supported or refuted by your data.
Implementation & Strategy
Costs, timelines, and strategic considerations for adopting the Scientific Method.
Estimated Project Costs
The scientific method is a process, so it doesn't have a direct cost. However, there are costs associated with the time and resources that you dedicate to the process. These costs can range from a few hundred dollars to several million dollars, depending on the complexity of the experiment.
Implementation Strategy
A typical scientific experiment starts with a question. From there, you will do some background research and formulate a hypothesis. The next step is to design and conduct an experiment to test your hypothesis. The final step is to analyze your data and draw a conclusion.
Comparisons
How the Scientific Method stacks up against other methods of inquiry.