This document discusses research in the social sciences and the scientific method of conducting research. It explains that research involves systematically using experience, reasoning, and credible sources to gain authentic and rigorous knowledge. Research in the social sciences involves formal and deliberate inquiry to answer questions about social phenomena using the scientific method. The scientific method refers to systematically formulating research questions based on observations and developing a research plan to analyze data and draw conclusions. Key characteristics of research as a scientific method are that it is repeatable, can be challenged, is accurate, and makes claims carefully.

1. Research in social
sciences
--------------------
The scientific way of
knowing
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan,
Department of Education,
Hazara University
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan

2. Sources of knowledge/Ways of
knowing
• Experience: Knowing through senses (Smell, touch, taste,
sight, hearing)
• Reasoning: Use of logic to make judgements
(Induction/Deduction)-Involving generalization and
inferencing
• Authority: Credible/trusted sources of knowledge
• Each of these ways of knowing has their own limitations
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan

3. Research as a systematic way of
knowing
• Systematic and organized use of experience, reasoning
or logic (induction-deduction) and authority could lead
to knowing that is more authentic, rigorous and
credible.
• Research in social sciences:
• Formal, systematic, deliberate inquiry aimed at finding
answers to our questions regarding social phenomena.
• Research Questions are often based on our
experiences or observations
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan

4. Research: The scientific method
• Research follows the scientific method of exploring and
knowing.
• The scientific method refers to:
• The systematic formulation and articulation of research
questions/hypotheses/objectives in the light of our
observations or experiences
• Development and application of a research plan/design (Data
collection and analysis)
• Getting to findings and conclusions (Predictions, Explanation,
Description)
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan

5. Research: Characteristics as a
scientific method
• Replicability: Repeatability of the process and the product
of research
• Falsifiability: Research process/outcomes could be
challenged/Openness to change
• Precision: Accuracy of the research
questions/hypotheses/objectives, processes and outcomes
• Parsimony: Humility and carefulness in terms of making
research claims
Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Khan