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The essential steps in the observational and experimental methods are illustrated in Figure 2. The experimental method is frequently used in investigations in the physical sciences and engineering. The data are analysed to determine whether a relationship exists which either confirms or refutes the hypothesis. An experiment is designed to test the hypothesis by observing the response of one variable to changes in a limited number of other variables under controlled conditions. The experimental method begins with a hypothesis. Once a valid statistical sample (see Chapter Four) of observations has been recorded, the researcher analyzes and interprets the data, and develops a theory or hypothesis, which explains the observations.

Errors introduced as a result of observing a phenomenon are known as systematic errors because they apply to all observations. In fact, it is important that the research be carried out in such a manner that the investigations do not change the behaviour of what is being observed. In the observational method, the researcher does not control any of the variables. It involves recording observations according to a plan, which prescribes what information to collect, where it should be sought, and how it should be recorded. The observational method is most common in the natural sciences, especially in fields such as biology, geology and environmental science. The Experimental (and quasi-experimental) Methods, and.Three types of investigation, or method, can be recognized: The term is usually used to mean a systematic approach to solving a problem in science.

Although most of us have heard, at some time in our careers, that research must be carried out according to the scientific method, there is no single, scientific method.

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