The Steps of the
Scientific Method
Knowledge originates from the observation and study of natural and social phenomena.
The scientific method is used to do this in an orderly and controlled manner.
The scientific method is a process made up of several steps that allow us to obtain new
knowledge through a work plan, which begins with the observation and analysis
of a phenomenon and concludes with proposing new knowledge about it.
There are several methods and variations of them; however, most of them agree
on the way these steps are organized to allow scientists and researchers to give or try
to give an explanation of what happens in nature and society.
The process requires quantitative
(measurable) and qualitative ( which can
be characterized) evidence and information.
Within the scientific method, there are two
basic models: the experimental or inductive
method and the theoretical or deductive
method. An investigation can use both
or focus on only one.
Academic research at the basic levels
of education uses the theoretical or deductive
method, which involves analyzing
information previously researched by other
authors. Research at higher educational
levels involves the use of both methods.
Although each of these models has specific
characteristics in its procedures, both follow
a similar process determined by the steps
of the scientific method.
Steps of the scientific method
These steps can be adapted according to the subject matter
and objective of the research.
1. Observation: It is the analysis of a phenomenon beyond a
simple impression. It involves using all the senses and
thought to perceive it and identify the characteristics and
processes of the phenomenon we wish to study in depth.
2. Statement of the problem: It is the appearance of an idea
related to the observed phenomenon. The desire to know
something about it in a deeper way. It is not a problem in
the literal sense, but the desire to know something new
about the phenomenon.
3. Hypothesis: The proposal of a possible explanation of the
observed phenomenon. It arises from the statement of the
problem and the induction or deduction of its implications.
4. Experimentation: It tests the hypothesis by controlling
some variables or factors that influence the phenomenon
we are studying. These experiments can be practical or
theoretical and consist of observing the phenomenon under
certain previously established parameters.
5. Data recording: This is the process of recording
the information obtained during the observation
and experimentation phases. It can also include
data from research carried out by other scientists
on the same subject.
6. Analysis: Study of the results and data obtained
and recorded during the previous steps.
7. Conclusion (confirmation of hypothesis):
Statement of the results obtained. It is based on a
detailed explanation of whether or not the
previously established hypothesis is fulfilled and
the reasons for it.
8. Elaboration of laws and theories: This is the
circulation of the new knowledge obtained as a
result of the research.
a) Theory: A set of hypotheses or proposals
that attempt to explain a phenomenon that
has not been fully proven.
b) Law: Result of a theory for which the
hypothesis has been tested and can be
represented by a mathematical expression.
If the results in the final phase of the scientific method are not as expected, a new hypothesis
can be proposed, starting a new research process; likewise, changes can be made in some
steps of the experiment to vary the result.
Not all phenomena studied using the scientific method can be proven in a first attempt,
so we may repeat this process several times.
References:
Gracida, Y. (2001). Investigación documental. Acto de conocimiento. Mexico City, Mexico: Edere.
Vidal, L. (2002). Taller de lectura y redacción e iniciación a la investigación documental IV. Mexico City, Mexico: Vila.
Walker, M. (2000). Cómo escribir trabajos de investigación. Barcelona, Spain: Gedisa.