Science provides a means for anyone to perform original research. In fact, many scientists are involved with research directly; running experiments and making observations. Although individually these scientists are engaged in many separate fields of science (e.g., Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Physics), collectively they're doing just two types or broad categories of research - basic and applied.
Basic research expands the knowledge base in a field of science. It may become the basis for a major theory or entire industry (e.g., DNA/genetic engineering), or it may simply occupy disc or library space until the end of time without application. It is, by its nature, difficult to predict the fate of basic research, and its significance is occasionally unknown for years (e.g., Mendel's work in genetics). Basic research is usually performed in universities or non-profit research institutes, and it is usually funded by charitable or governmental grants. Basic research benefits us indirectly, since it is the foundation of all applied research.
Applied research is intended to improve a product or service or even to create a new product or service. Scientists employed in private industry usually perform applied research. Sometimes private industries form partnerships with government labs to perform this research. By its nature, applied research is industrial and is directed towards economic growth through direct profits. Applied research brings direct, measurable benefit as it continues to expand our economy.
But how is this research performed? What is the method by which scientists solve problems? At its simplest, the scientific method begins by making observations, then proposing explanations, and finally testing those explanations. The scientific method is the most common tool of science. I suppose you could say it's the way many scientists do their jobs.
Steps of the Method.
Although some books may differ, I prefer to think of the method as following these six steps:.
