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Research can be broadly classified into two main categories: scientific and non-scientific methods. Both approaches are used to collect data and add new information to existing knowledge. They play a significant role in resolving various disputes, including political debates, economic issues, and social problems. Let’s delve into the characteristics and distinctions between scientific and non-scientific research methods.


 

Scientific vs. Non-Scientific Research Methods
 

Scientific Research Methods

Scientific research employs standardized and systematic methods and strategies to collect, interpret, and evaluate data. The goal is to produce verifiable and objective results. This research involves clearly defined hypotheses, well-designed experiments, and a systematic approach to data collection and analysis.

When conducting scientific research, researchers must plan their studies and prepare methodologies. For example, research on the effectiveness of a new drug involves specific inclusion and exclusion criteria for participants, control variables, and strategically measured improvements to design a well-structured experiment. Examples of scientific research include clinical trials exploring the effects of new drugs, experiments investigating factors contributing to climate change, and psychological studies examining the effects of specific interventions on mental health.

Scientific research can be categorized into observational and experimental types based on data collection techniques. It operates at two levels: the theoretical level, where concepts related to social and natural phenomena are developed, and the empirical level, where theoretical concepts and relationships are tested.

 

Classification of Scientific Research

Scientific research can be classified in various ways:

   - By Data Collection Techniques: Observational and experimental.

   - By Causality Relationships: Descriptive and analytical.

   - By Time Relationship: Retrospective, prospective, and cross-sectional.

   - By Application Medium: Clinical and laboratory.

Despite the different methods used across scientific fields, all scientific research methods share fundamental characteristics.

 

Characteristics of Scientific Research

   - Empirical Basis: Scientific research relies on direct observation of the world and dismisses hypotheses that contradict observable facts.

   - Replicability: Experiments conducted using scientific methods can be repeated by others to achieve the same results.

   - Tentative Results: Results obtained through scientific methods are provisional and may prompt further questioning and discussion. New data that contradicts existing theories may lead to revisions, as seen with the phlogiston theory of fire and combustion.

   - Objectivity: Scientific methods depend on facts and the world as it is, rather than beliefs, hopes, or desires.

   - Planned Approach: Scientific research relies on carefully planned studies rather than random or accidental observations. However, science can start from random observations. As Isaac Asimov famously noted, the most exciting thing in science is not the "Eureka!" moment but finding something intriguing and then systematically investigating it.

 

Non-Scientific Research Methods

Non-scientific research does not follow scientific methods or aim to produce objective results based on evidence. Instead, it often involves intuition, personal experiences, or personal beliefs to draw conclusions. Examples of non-scientific research include surveys, case studies, and qualitative interviews. These methods typically do not use logical or systematic approaches to data analysis.


Comparing Scientific and Non-Scientific Research Methods