Detailed scientific study. Types of scientific research. Qualitative Research Methods

Any scientific research - from the creative concept to the final design of scientific work - is carried out very individually. But it is still possible to define some general methodological approaches to its implementation, which are usually called study in the scientific sense.

Modern scientific and theoretical thinking strives to penetrate into the essence of the phenomena and processes being studied. This is possible subject to a holistic approach to the object of study, consideration of this object in its emergence and development, i.e. application of a historical approach to its study.

It is known that new scientific results and previously accumulated knowledge are in dialectical interaction. The best and most progressive from the old passes into the new and gives it strength and effectiveness. Sometimes the forgotten old is revived again on a new scientific basis and lives, as it were, a second life, but in a different, more perfect form.

To study in the scientific sense means to conduct exploratory research, as if looking into the future. Imagination, fantasy, dreams, based on real achievements of science and technology, are the most important factors in scientific research. But at the same time, scientific study is the informed application of scientific foresight, it is a well-thought-out calculation.

To study in the scientific sense means to be scientifically objective. Facts cannot be thrown aside just because they are difficult to explain or find practical application for. The fact is that the essence of what is new in science is not always visible to the researcher himself. New scientific facts and even discoveries, due to the fact that their significance is poorly disclosed, can remain in the reserve of science for a long time and not be used in practice.

Scientific study obliges not only to conscientiously depict or simply describe, but also to find out the relationship of what is being studied to what is known either from experience or from previous study, i.e. define and express the quality of the unknown with the help of the known in those cases in which it exists. To study in this way means to measure everything that can, subject to measurement, show the numerical relationship of what is being studied to what is known. It is obvious that it is possible to study something only when something is already recognized as initial, undoubted, ready-made in consciousness.



To study scientifically means to search for a causal relationship between the phenomena, facts and events under consideration.

To study scientifically is not only to look, but also to see, to notice important details, the big in the small, without deviating from the intended main line of research.

In scientific research, everything is important. Concentrating attention on the main or key issues of the topic, one cannot ignore the so-called indirect facts, which at first glance seem insignificant. It often happens that it is precisely such facts that hide the beginnings of important discoveries.

In science, it is not enough to establish any new scientific fact; it is important to give it an explanation from the standpoint of science, to show its general cognitive, theoretical or practical significance.

The accumulation of scientific facts in the process of research is always a creative process, which is always based on the scientist’s plan and his name. In a philosophical definition, an idea is a product of human thought, a form of reflection of reality. An idea differs from other forms of thinking and scientific knowledge in that it not only reflects the object of study, but also contains the consciousness of a goal, a perspective of knowledge and a practical transformation of reality.

Ideas are born from practice, observations of the world around us and the needs of life. The idea is based on real facts and events. Life presents specific challenges, but often productive ideas for solving them are not immediately found. Then the researcher’s ability to offer a new, completely unusual aspect of considering a problem that for a long time could not be solved with the usual approach to the matter comes to the rescue, or, as they say, they tried to solve it “head-on”.

The development of an idea to the stage of solving a problem is usually carried out as a planned process of scientific research. Although accidental discoveries are known in science, only planned scientific research, well equipped with modern means, makes it possible to reveal and deeply understand objective patterns in nature.

Scientific research is a very labor-intensive and complex process that requires constant “high intensity”, working with passion. If research is carried out indifferently, it turns into handicraft and never produces anything significant. It is not for nothing that scientific creativity is sometimes compared to a feat. Like a feat, it requires maximum effort of all a person’s energy, his thoughts and actions.

Basic concepts of research work

When starting to prepare a master's thesis, you should first of all master the language in which scientists communicate with each other. The language of science is very specific. It contains many concepts and terms that are in circulation in scientific activity. The degree of mastery of the conceptual apparatus of science determines how accurately, competently and clearly a master’s student can express his thought, explain this or that fact, and have the proper effect on the reader of his dissertation essay.

The basis of the language of science is words and phrases of a terminological nature, some of which are given below with some explanations:

Analogy is a reasoning in which, from the similarity of two objects according to some characteristics, a conclusion is drawn about their similarity according to other characteristics.

The relevance of a topic is the degree of its importance at a given moment and in a given situation for solving a given problem (task, issue).

Aspect is the angle from which the object (subject) of research is viewed.

A hypothesis is a scientific assumption put forward to explain any phenomena.

Deduction is a type of inference from the general to the particular, when from a mass of particular cases a generalized conclusion is made about the entire set of such cases.

A dissertation is a scientific work executed in the form of a manuscript, scientific report, published monograph or textbook. Serves as a qualifying work designed to demonstrate the scientific research level of the research submitted for an academic degree.

An idea is a defining position in a system of views, theories, etc.

Induction is a type of inference from particular facts and provisions to general conclusions.

Information:

Review - secondary information contained in reviews of scientific documents;

Relevant - information contained in the description of the prototype of a scientific problem;

Abstract - secondary information contained in primary scientific documents;

Signaling - secondary information of varying degrees of collapse, performing the function of preliminary warning;

Reference - secondary information, which is systematized brief information in any field of knowledge.

Scientific research is the process of developing new scientific knowledge, one of the types of cognitive activity. It is characterized by objectivity, reproducibility, evidence and accuracy.

A research specialty (often referred to as a research area) is an established field of research that includes a certain number of research problems from one scientific discipline, including its area of ​​application.

A research task is an elementary organized set of research actions, the deadlines for which are set with a sufficient degree of accuracy. A research assignment has significance only within the boundaries of a specific research topic.

Historiography is a scientific discipline that studies the history of historical science.

A concept is a system of views on something, the main idea when the goals and objectives of research are determined and ways of conducting it are indicated.

Conjuncture is the current situation in any area of ​​public life.

A short report is a scientific document containing a condensed summary of the results (sometimes preliminary) obtained as a result of research or development work. The purpose of such a document is to promptly report the results of the work performed at any stage.

Keyword is a word or phrase that most fully and specifically characterizes the content of a scientific document or part of it.

Research method is a way of applying old knowledge to obtain new knowledge. It is a tool for obtaining scientific facts.

The methodology of scientific knowledge is the doctrine of the principles, forms and methods of scientific research activity.

Science is a sphere of human activity, the function of which is the development and theoretical systematization of objective knowledge about reality. One of the forms of social consciousness.

A scientific discipline is a section of science that, at a given Level of its development, is currently mastered and introduced into the educational process of higher education.

A scientific topic is a task of a scientific nature that requires scientific research. It is the main planning and reporting indicator of research work.

A scientific theory is a system of abstract concepts and statements, which is not a direct, but an idealized reflection of reality.

Scientific research is purposeful cognition, the results of which appear in the form of a system of concepts, laws and theories.

Scientific knowledge is a study that is characterized by its specific goals, and most importantly, by methods of obtaining and testing new knowledge.

The scientific and technical direction of research work is an independent technical task that provides a further solution to the problem.

A scientific report is a scientific document containing a presentation of research or development work, published in print or read in an audience.

A scientific report is a scientific document containing a detailed description of the methodology, the progress of research (development), results, as well as conclusions obtained as a result of research or development work. The purpose of this document is to comprehensively cover the work performed upon completion or over a certain period of time.

A scientific fact is an event or phenomenon that is the basis for a conclusion or confirmation. It is an element that forms the basis of scientific knowledge.

A review is a scientific document containing systematized scientific data on a topic, obtained as a result of analysis of primary sources. Introduces the current state of the scientific problem and the prospects for its development.

The object of research is a process or phenomenon that gives rise to a problem situation and is chosen for study.

Definition is one of the most reliable ways to prevent misunderstandings in communication, dispute and research. The purpose of the definition is to clarify the content of the concepts used.

The subject of research is everything that is within the boundaries of the object of study in a certain aspect of consideration.

A concept is a thought that reflects the distinctive properties of objects and the relationships between them.

Raising a question with the logical method of research includes, firstly, identifying facts that necessitate analysis and generalizations, and secondly, identifying problems that have not been resolved by science. Any research is associated with the identification of facts that are not explained by science, are not systematized, and fall out of its field of view. Their generalization constitutes the content of the question. From fact to problem - this is the logic of posing the question.

A principle is the basic, starting position of any theory, teaching, or science.

A problem is a large, generalized set of formulated scientific questions that cover an area of ​​future research. The following types of problems are distinguished:

Research - a complex of related research topics within the boundaries of one scientific discipline and in one field of application;

Complex scientific - the interconnection of research topics from various fields of science aimed at solving the most important national economic problems;

Scientific - a set of topics covering the entire research work or part of it; involves solving a specific theoretical or experimental problem aimed at ensuring further scientific or technical progress in a given industry.

Judgment is a thought with the help of which something is affirmed or denied. Such a thought, enclosed in a sentence, contains three elements: a subject, a predicate and a connective - “is” or “is not” (words expressing a connective are usually not used in Russian).

Theory is a doctrine, a system of ideas or principles. A set of generalized provisions that form a science or its branch. It acts as a form of synthetic knowledge, within the boundaries of which individual concepts, hypotheses and laws lose their former autonomy and become elements of an integral system.

Inference is a mental operation by means of which, from a certain number of given judgments, another judgment is derived, connected in a certain way with the original one.

A factual document is a scientific document containing text, digital, illustrative and other information reflecting the state of the subject of research or collected as a result of research work.

The claim is a description of the invention, drawn up in the approved form and containing a brief summary of its essence.

A discovery formula is a description of a discovery, drawn up in an approved form and containing a comprehensive statement of its essence.

Everyday-empirical, diagnostic and scientific knowledge

Scientific research is a special type of cognitive activity, different from spontaneous (everyday-empirical) knowledge, from diagnostics and from knowledge in art.

Scientific knowledge is characterized by the following distinctive features:

/. Availability of special research methods. This is perhaps the main feature of scientific research. Unlike everyday-empirical knowledge, which is spontaneous and not organized, scientific knowledge is based on the norm of activity - the scientific method.

2. Accuracy of the data obtained. If knowledge in art is based on the experience and intuition of the subject of knowledge, then scientific knowledge is based on precisely established facts, the discovery of which becomes possible through the use of special research methods.

3. Reproducibility of the results obtained, meaning the opportunity to re-obtain established data (facts, patterns) by other people under similar conditions, i.e. using the same methodology that was already used by the researcher who received these data. If, under the same conditions, an established fact is not reproduced by other researchers, it cannot be considered scientific.

4. Novelty of the results obtained. The novelty of results is understood as novelty not for an individual person performing a cognitive act, but novelty for society. In other words, the research should produce data that was previously unknown to society. This is how a scientific study differs from a diagnostic examination. The similarity between these two types of activity is that both there and here the act of cognition is realized. However, its goals are different: the purpose of research, as already noted, is to obtain new knowledge. The purpose of diagnosis, or recognition, is to determine the condition of the subject from the point of view of existing knowledge.

5. Democratic. Comparing knowledge in science and art on this basis, we can say that science is democratic, and art is elitist. The democracy of science is manifested in the fact that knowledge about established facts or patterns always receives a description using formally logical means, so it can in principle be transferred to another person, and. accordingly, he can understand this knowledge. Art also has a formally logical component that is subject to translation. However, when teaching art, there is always something that depends on the individual characteristics and experience of the person perceiving or creating a work of art.

Topic 2. Conceptual apparatus of scientific research

Scientific work is carried out in the form of an abstract, course project, diploma project, which includes, along with other sections, a theoretical (recommendatory) part and an economic justification. The work must be complete: have internal logic, contain the formulation and competent solution of management tasks, performance assessment and further provisions for their use. Scientific work must be based on the author’s own developments, original solutions and recommendations received by him.

New solutions can be: diagnostic analysis and recommendations resulting from it, formulation of a management problem, a mathematical model of the process, software tools for solving a management problem, development of management technology, proposals for changing the structure of the organization, a new organization of the production process, a new motivation system or a performance management concept , rearranging people according to their interests and characteristics, etc. All decisions, conclusions, results must be justified through logical analysis, calculations, the use of proven methods, and calculations of the potential effect.

The diploma project is an independent creative work of the student; it is necessary to adhere to the structure given below:

Title page;

Main text part;

Conclusion;

Terminology;

List of used literature;

Applications.

The methodology of scientific research is the science of scientific methods of reflecting and studying any processes or areas of human activity.

Methodology- is the science of scientific knowledge of the world using scientific tools, i.e. research methods

Study This is the study of any area or issue (task) using selected techniques and research methods.

Method- this is a way to achieve a goal, a solution to a specific problem, as well as a set of techniques or operations for understanding reality.

Reception- this is part of the method.

Techniques, like methods, can be varied, and the result and success of the study depends on the ability to use them.

A method reflects a particular action, method, knowledge of methods, as well as techniques, the ability to use them in practice determines professionalism.

To carry out the research, you must first select its direction (for example: marketing management; accounting policy)

The study examines the topic as a system.

Any system is characterized by structure.

A structure contains elements.

The system can be complex or simple.

A simple system can consist only of elements.

When formulating a theme, the system consists of four elements:

2) Sphere of production (activity) (for example: construction enterprise) i.e. the industry sector is indicated;

3) Products of production (for example: sometimes products of production in the field of activity of the enterprise);

4) Economic conditions (for example: in the conditions of implementation of the latest information technologies).

For example, Subject: Efficiency of management of a construction enterprise for the production of furniture in the context of the introduction of the latest technologies.

Examples in their development:

1. Enterprise management “-”;

2. Efficiency of enterprise management “-”;

3. Efficiency of management of a construction enterprise “-”;

4. Efficiency of management of a construction enterprise for the production of furniture “-”;

5. Efficiency of management of a construction enterprise for the production of furniture in the context of the introduction of the latest technologies “+”.

Options for formulating the topic:

1. Efficiency of management of construction production for the production of furniture in the conditions of technology updating;

2. Improving the management of a manufacturing enterprise for the production of furniture in the context of technology updating;

3. Improving the management of furniture production in the context of the introduction of modern technologies;

4. Improving the management of the economics of construction production for the production of furniture in the context of the use of innovative technologies;

5. Efficiency of innovation management in furniture production;

6. The main directions for increasing the efficiency of economic development of furniture production in the context of the introduction of modern technologies;

7. Ways to improve furniture production in the context of the introduction of modern technologies;

8. Improving the economics of a motor transport enterprise in the context of updating the technology park;

9. Efficiency of management of a commercial bank in conditions of a currency crisis.

10.Improving the management of the bank’s credit division in the context of rising real estate prices.

Research structure

The structure of the study is revealed in the introduction (from the third page - after the contents: chapters and paragraphs)

The structure of the introduction consists of 14 elements, each starting with a red line:

1. Relevance;

2. Theoretical research;

3. Purpose of the study;

4. Object of study;

5. Subject of research;

6. Research hypothesis (with conditions);

7. Research objectives (determined by conditions);

8. Methodological basis of the study;

9. Research methods;

10. Contradiction; 11.Problem;

13.Novelty of the research;

14. Practical significance;

The sequence of presentation of these research elements cannot be violated (since it contains a certain logic of reasoning).

Structure:

1. Relevance.

Revealed through 3-4 aspects:

Economic;

Socio-economic;

Social;

Legal.

Depending on the focus of the study, a set of certain aspects is selected. The topic expresses the essence of the problem and is aimed at solving it. When forming a topic, it is necessary to remember that the work must be done on a current problematic topic; the implementation of which and the results obtained could be aimed at implementation in practice. The professionalism of the research is determined from the very first lines of the work performed. The relevance should be stated very succinctly, no more than 1-1.5 pages.

2. Theoretical research.

This is an analysis of literature, those scientific works in which the research of the authors is presented, i.e. those scientists who worked in the direction of the selected course work research. When performing theoretical research, knowledge in a particular area is studied and clarified, which is presented and studied by the authors or a number of authors in specific works. To carry out research on a chosen topic, you need to know what has already been researched and what conclusions have been drawn. In the process of conducting theoretical research, the author can make some generalizations and structuring of knowledge. When conducting theoretical research, it is mandatory to indicate the title of the work and the author, and provide footnotes and references. Plagiarism is not allowed (plagiarism is the deliberate appropriation of authorship of someone else's work of science or art, someone else's ideas or inventions). During the analysis process, the text must be processed by the author performing the research. It is necessary to carefully analyze, generalize, systematize, and specify the chosen area of ​​knowledge, highlighting the most important and important studies, indicating the authors. It is necessary to analyze modern research, problems, issues presented in scientific, popular science publications, as well as magazines, newspapers, i.e. it is necessary to have up-to-date information.

Bibliography:

1. Regulatory and legal;

2. Scientific literature;

3. Professional and specialized literature;

4. Scientific and popular science literature, periodicals...;

5. Professional dictionaries;

6. Dictionaries of synonyms (help to clarify a professional term, give it a certain color or direction);

7. Explanatory dictionary of the Russian language;

8. Encyclopedias;

9. Internet resources.

3. Purpose of the study.

The purpose of the research is always specific, the goal is always the same. The goal is aimed at identifying and revealing practical problems based on theoretical knowledge. The goal formulates the identification of the most important, the main thing with the help of which improvement and increased efficiency can be achieved (it is necessary to indicate the sphere of production, products and economic conditions of production). It can be either narrowly focused or broader. The goal is one of the most important tasks of the study. Key words for formulating a goal: define, identify, find, search, develop. If the term “development” is used, then it is necessary to indicate exactly what the development is needed for. These can be effective methods, techniques, conditions, factors, features, mechanisms. The genesis (origin) of a goal is from the topic, relevance, problem and the principle of goal setting (you can set a goal, set it yourself based on the topic, relevance, theoretical research).

For example: The purpose of the study is to determine ways to improve the efficiency of production management...

4. Object of study.

This is the focus of the study (1st element of the topic). The object, as a rule, is the activities of a company, enterprise or system of activities (management system, marketing). Types of activities carried out by the enterprise:

Economic;

Financial and economic;

Financial;

Financial and economic;

Economic;

Management;

Marketing;

Charitable, educational, social, political, etc.

If a system is considered in an object, then the structure of its functioning must be disclosed.

Any system is characterized by structure and elements, and therefore when the object is a system, it is necessary to consider and determine the functionality of this structure, completeness, insufficiency, connections and interconnections, in order to increase the effectiveness of this system.

5. Subject of research.

This is a side of the research object or part of it, i.e. when we consider (examine) any type of activity of an enterprise, then the subject examines the process of activity or some part of this activity. The subject of research can be the conditions of development and the organizational mechanism. The subject of research can be a process of activity, a part of the process of activity can be considered (for example, technology is a sequential process of manufacturing (creation, development, management) of something. If an object is an activity, then the subject can be the process of this activity (for example, construction - object, what is being built - an object).If the topic is a system, then object research is a control system, A subject research is development process, defining the elements of this system(structures and content). The same applies to the system.

6. Research hypothesis.

This is a theoretical form of discovering truth, a scientific assumption. It (assumption) includes and indicates the conditions and ways to increase the efficiency of a particular activity. The hypothesis is formed from the topic, then the conditions of the hypothesis are formed. The hypothesis must formulate the expected result of the work, what has been established by this study, what will be proven by this work. When a hypothesis is professionally formulated, this means the mandatory presence in the hypothesis of conditions (provisions), i.e. those economic, socio-economic, legal... conditions, through the implementation and solution of which the goal of the research will be achieved. The conditions of the hypothesis are related to those aspects that are revealed in “Relevance”. The formulation of the hypothesis begins as follows:

For example: The working hypothesis of this study is the following assumption. Effective management of the production of building materials in the context of improving product quality will be achieved if:

- the management process takes into account the problems of production of building materials (indicate which problems);

- the management process is organized in the conditions of application of modern methods of labor organization (specify methods);

- environmentally friendly materials are used (specify which ones);

-organization of labor is carried out on the basis of the requirements of NOT (scientific organization of labor) (specify which ones).

The conditions of the hypothesis can be 2nd, 3rd, 4th (by number). Key words: application…, implementation…, use..., implementation..., introduction...

7. Research objectives.

They follow and are formulated from the hypothesis, and specifically from the conditions of the hypothesis, in the same sequence. Keywords:

Define;

Reveal;

Install;

Develop;

Clarify (theoretical basis, basis. If there are changes in the theoretical basis);

Analyze (for what? This task is rare).

For example: The research objectives follow from the hypothesis:

1. Determine the content of the production process based on the use of advanced equipment and technology

2. Identify problems in the production of building materials.

3. Establish modern methods of labor organization.

4. Establish a list of environmentally friendly materials used;

5. Establish the conditions for the scientific organization of labor.

8. Methodological basis of the study

These are economic theories, approaches, aspects, principles, provisions. When the research objectives are determined, the methodological basis of the research is formed: these are theoretical provisions, concepts, solutions. They are fundamental for conducting research on a specific topic, and the formulation of the theory must be given, indicating the author or authors. The ability to formulate a methodological basis for research determines the level of professionalism. The success of the research depends on the theory or approach underlying the research (competently, professionally), because this, in turn, is connected with the conditions of the hypothesis put forward, and therefore with the tasks.

9. Research methods.

These are scientific tools with which research is carried out.

Methods are divided into:

General scientific;

Professional, special.

General scientific:

Analysis and synthesis;

Deductive;

Inductive....

Generalization;

Comparison;

Specification;

Systematization;

Explanation;

Demonstration;

Experiment

Reception is part of the method:

Observation;

Statistical data processing;

Timing;

Professional and special methods are associated with the study of professional and special disciplines. They need to be known to conduct research, since any method means action.

Special:

Methods for studying documents

Methods of sociological research of management

Experimentation method “Business game”

Test method

Methods of expert assessments and SWOT analysis in the study of management systems

Method for studying the interaction of factors

Professional:

Economic experiment;

Method of economic analysis;

FIFO method...

The “red line” begins with the research method, because the method means an action, which means this action must be explained and described when presented. It is the use of research methods that makes it possible, based on the analysis and generalization of literature and other people’s experience, to make the author’s work (example: analysis of the author’s work confirms the statement « » ).

10.Contradictions.

This is a discrepancy between the theory and the practice of functioning of the object being studied. The contradiction is determined on the basis of an analysis of theory and analysis of practice, experience of functioning in a particular activity.

11.Problem.

A problem is formed from a contradiction. Defines a narrower range of professionally researched issues on the topic. A problem is a professional range of issues being considered, which allows solving specific problems in more detail. The problem is to find optimal conditions, methods, and mechanisms for improvement. The problem determines the choice of topic and allows and allows it to be specifically formulated, that is, with all the previous reasoning justified and it is proved loyalty and the relevance of the choice of research topic.

12. Topic.

The topic follows (is determined by the problem) from the problem (that is, we have proven it - the topic). This is a specific formulation of a preliminary study of issues defined by the problem, that is, the topic is formulated from the problem, clarified, confirmed. When choosing a topic, you should be guided by the relevance of the problem, the availability of special scientific literature, the possibility of obtaining specific statistical and practical data, which is confirmed by an order for development from production.

13.Novelty of the research.

The novelty of the research lies in the substantiation of the research results with an explanation of the conditions of the hypothesis, i.e., proof of the put forward conditions and ways to increase efficiency.

13. Practical significance- this is a response to scientifically posed research tasks, as well as the formulation of conclusions, proposals, and recommendations. In practical significance, the results are analyzed and summarized; specific practical recommendations are given.

For example: The effectiveness of marketing management in the construction industry for the production of furniture in the context of the introduction of the latest technologies.

Introduction………………….…………………………………………...3

Chapter I. Theoretical foundations of marketing management

1.1 The essence and principles of marketing management....................................

1.2 Methods of marketing management in an enterprise.................................

1.3 Practice (experience) of effective marketing management in furniture manufacturing enterprises.................................................... ......

Chapter II. Ways to increase the efficiency of marketing activities in the management of construction production for the production of furniture.

2.2 Features of marketing activities in furniture production in the modern sales market.................................................... ........................

2.3 Economic factors influencing the effectiveness of marketing in the production and sale of furniture products....................................

2.4 Methods for improving marketing management of a furniture production enterprise.................................................... ..............

Conclusion................................................. ........................................

Terminology................................................. ...................................................

Bibliography................................................ ...........................................

Applications........................................................ ........................................................ .

The sections should adhere to the following structure.

The "Introduction" should justify the relevance of the topic for the given enterprise, theoretical research (indicating the names of authors and literature), purpose, object and subject of research, hypothesis, objectives, methodological basis of the study, methods, contradiction, problematic nature, theme, novelty, practical significance .

The main text part must indicate at least three parts: theoretical and methodological, description of the enterprise and search for management provisions in it that need theoretical and practical application. The second chapter provides a review of the literature on the problem, forms a concept, substantiates the methodology for analyzing the problem in a specific organization (enterprise, firm), and the third chapter should justify the practical, informational, computer base for studying this problem and the need for its further research. In this chapter, based on the analysis methodology, the state of the problem in the enterprise is examined. Materials for analysis can be work plans of organizations, annual reports, statistical reporting and other official documentation. The materials that serve as the basis for justification and analysis must be sufficiently complete and reliable so that, based on them, it would be possible to analyze the state of affairs, reveal and outline ways of using them, and also eliminate revealed shortcomings in the work. You should avoid unnecessary information, selecting only those that will be used in the process of work.

The “Conclusion” should contain the main conclusions, suggestions, recommendations for each chapter and their practical application.

Methods of organizing scientific work

Knowledge of the methods and methodology of organizing scientific work makes it possible to:

correctly draw up a plan for scientific work (course work, dissertation, etc.).

correctly construct all parts of a scientific work so that all parts serve to substantiate the result:

choose a topic;

formulate a goal (task);

it is optimal to write “Introduction”;

distribute the material into sections (chapters, paragraphs, etc.) and give them titles;

draw a conclusion, i.e. summarize the rationale for the result.

For the methodology of science, it is advisable to consider scientific work as a special case of question-answer thinking:

the title of the entire work is presented as the main question of the scientific work;

titles of sections of the work - as auxiliary questions;

distributing the material of the entire work into subsections means reducing the question to auxiliary questions;

limiting the reduction to lower-level subsections is an achievement in reducing the questions that are the correct auxiliary questions;

the main result is considered as the answer to the main question;

auxiliary results - as answers to auxiliary questions;

justification of results - as justification of answers based on accepted premises and answers to lower level questions.

The organization of scientific work consists in correctly (satisfying the justification of the result) dividing it into parts and establishing such a structure of these parts and their interrelation that the main methodological task is achieved - the justification of the main result of scientific work. The parts of scientific work are:

topic name;

goal (task) setting;

introduction;

conclusion.

The basic methodological rule for organizing scientific work: all parts must be interconnected in such a way that each of them is directly or indirectly determined by the main result and meets the task of substantiating it. In short, the result determines the specificity of each part of the scientific work. Therefore, without knowing the result, it is pointless to try to assess the quality of any of these parts, to judge its acceptability or unacceptability.

Thus, scientific work in the methodological aspect is an interrogative system, all parts of which and their relationships are expressible in in terms of interrogative language, for example, such as term, question, main and auxiliary question, correct question, answer, reduction (reduction) of the question, deduction (derivation) of the answer.

Methodological requirements for the result of scientific work:

The result must be a concrete judgment.

This means, firstly, that the result must be an affirmative sentence in which something and about something must be asserted. This means that we must clearly imagine what we are talking about and what is being asserted about this object. It is clear that in such a case the main terms of the statement must be explicitly and clearly defined. The result cannot be expressed in a phrase or interrogative sentence. However, this is precisely the mistake that is allowed.

For example, the expression “causality in objective reality” cannot be considered a result, because it does not assert anything about anything. This is a phrase. It can express a question if it serves as a title, but it cannot express a result. The result in this case may be an expression like “causality in objective reality is such and such.” This is already a statement that can be true or false.

The truth of the result must be justified. The main task of scientific work is to substantiate the truth of the research result.

Coursework, diploma theses, scientific articles and monographs must demonstrate the novelty and relevance of the result.

A. Methodological requirements for the title

As we already said, title scientific work is its main question. The titles of the sections of the work are auxiliary questions. The lowest level of titles obtained by combining the main question of the work is auxiliary correct questions. The main methodological problem of the title is how to formulate it methodologically correctly.

When solving this problem, one should be guided by the following methodological requirement: the title must express (by a phrase or a sentence of any grammatical category) a question, the answer to which should be the main result of the scientific work. It follows that the title should be significantly determined by the main result. In this case, other (insignificant, but desirable) additional requirements may be taken into account: brevity, use of the most understandable terms, correct style, etc.

For the sake of brevity in writing titles, even a special title language has been developed. When writing a title, we seem to translate the expressions of ordinary language into the language of titles. There are no strict regulations here, but still certain standards (“stamps”) should be followed. We have already given one example: where we need to express a relationship, we write the word " And". Another example: where it is necessary to express the necessary conditions for the occurrence or existence of a phenomenon, the word is written "meaning". True, sometimes authors use the word " meaning" not instead of the word “necessary conditions”, but instead of “arbitrary conditions”. This disorients the recipient, the work loses its scientific meaning. Something for something always has at least some meaning, even the most insignificant, which scientific work does not may be dedicated.

In order for the title to adequately express the main question, it is necessary that the key word of the question be clearly recognizable in it. To do this, you should try to put this word in first place in the title. Let us explain this with the following example:

Let the main result of research in the field of epistemology of science be the thesis that the principles of relativity and pluralism of truth in knowledge are necessary for solving methodological problems of the commensurability of theories, the truth of incompatible theories, the justification and applicability of theories, etc. We will discuss this in Chapter III.

Based on the result obtained, the main question of the work can be formulated as follows: “What is the need to apply epistemological principles to solve these methodological problems of scientific knowledge?”

On the basis of this question, taking into account additional requirements, we can give the following title to our work: “The importance of the theory of knowledge for the methodology of science.” It is clear that we have neglected some information contained in the question in the name of brevity and the correct style of the title. However, these losses can be restored by formulating the purpose of the work.

B. Methodological requirements for setting the goal of scientific work

Staging goals(tasks) of scientific work is specification the main question of this work, which must give the recipient an idea of ​​the specific problems that will be solved to obtain the main result (an answer to the main question).

For example, the goal of the work “The Importance of the Theory of Knowledge for the Methodology of Science” can be formulated as follows: to show

a) the need for the principles of relativity and pluralism of truth to solve the problems of the existence of logical relations of theories and the problem of their aspect-by-aspect comparison;

b) the need for the principles of relativity and pluralism of truth to solve the problem of the scope of applicability of the theory, etc.

Thus, setting a goal gives the recipient a more specific idea than the title of what the specific results of the work will consist of, which are generally outlined by the title. That's why goal setting method consists in reducing the main question expressed by the title to the most general correct auxiliary questions of the work. As a result, goal setting restores the information lost when formulating the title and even adds new information that more specifies the main result of the work.

When setting a goal you should:

Avoid replacing the purpose of scientific work, which is the purpose of obtaining results, with the purpose of research. The objectives of the research may be goals that have not been realized and have not led to results. There may be goals, although they lead to results, but results that do not matter, etc. Of course, during the research process, the author can set different goals, but they can be very far from the goal of the scientific work as the result of this research. Therefore, when setting the goal of a scientific work, you cannot write: the goal of the work is to investigate such and such. Not to explore, but to substantiate specific results that should be explicitly listed.

Avoid replacing the purpose of the work with other goals related to this work, for example, the purpose of applying its results. The purpose of the work is to substantiate certain results. Where and how these results can be applied is another question. If the author of the work aims to apply certain results, then it is necessary to change both the title and the content of the work intended to obtain these results, and again not to replace the goal of this new work with other goals.

B. Methodological requirements for the content of scientific work

Content scientific work provides the rationale for the answer to the main question. This justification consists of the preliminary conditions of the justification (introduction), the main content of the justification (the main content of the scientific work) and the summary of the justification (the conclusion of the work). Let us consider the methodological requirements in relation to each of these parts of scientific work.

IN 1. Methodological requirements for introduction to scientific work

Introduction A scientific work contains a statement of the basic definitions of terms and the main conditions and limitations accepted for the formulation of the main question and substantiation of the main result for the entire work. The main methodological requirement for the introduction is that the main concepts be selected in accordance with the task posed in the work, and the restrictions are adequate to the area in which the results can claim to be true.

For example, in the introduction to this work we defined, first of all, the term “methodology” in the sense of practical methodology, because it is in this sense that we need it throughout the entire work. In other works, the term “methodology” is used in other senses (private scientific methodology, purely theoretical methodology, even metamethodology). Since the main result of this work is methods for solving problems of general practical methodology, we immediately stipulated precisely this area of ​​​​applicability of the methods presented. We do not pretend to other areas. If these methods are applicable somewhere other than the specified area, then so much the better.

As we said, each section of a scientific work is also a scientific work. Therefore, in addition to the introduction to the entire work, there should be introductions to sections of the scientific work, for example, to chapters, paragraphs, points. But, as a rule, such introductions are not separated into independent sections and consist simply of definitions of concepts necessary for this section.

The conditions specified in the introduction may relate to the place and time of consideration of the object of research, the aspect in which this object is significant, the prerequisites (including idealizations) for its consideration, etc.

In the introduction, you can also indicate the results of predecessors, mainly for comparison with the results that the author of this work considers to be obtained by him and superior to the results of his colleagues. This emphasizes the novelty of the results of the scientific work of the author himself.

Methodology of scientific creativity

It is very important for beginning researchers to have at least a general understanding of the methodology of scientific creativity, because at the first stages of mastering the skills of scientific work, most of the problems that arise are of a methodological nature. Young scientists, first of all, lack experience in organizing their work, in using methods of scientific knowledge and applying logical laws and rules. Therefore, it makes sense to consider these issues in more detail.

Scientific study as the main form of scientific work

Any scientific research - from creative concept to final design - is carried out individually. But it is still possible to define some general methodological approaches to its implementation, which are usually called study in the scientific sense.

It is possible to penetrate into the essence of things under the condition of a holistic approach to the object of study, considering it in the process of emergence and development, that is, using a historical approach. It is known that fresh scientific results and previously accumulated knowledge are in dialectical interaction. Sometimes the forgotten old thing is revived and receives a second life, as it were, but in a different, more perfect form. To study in the scientific sense means to conduct exploratory research, “looking” into the future. Imagination, fantasy, dreams, based on real achievements of science and technology, are the most important factors in scientific research. But at the same time, scientific study is the informed application of foresight, a well-thought-out calculation.

The essence of what is new in science is not always visible to the researcher himself. Many facts and discoveries, due to the fact that their significance was poorly disclosed, can remain in the reserve of science for a long time and not be used in practice. Scientific study obliges not only to conscientiously depict or describe, but also to find out the relationship of what is being studied to what is known from previous study.

Scientifically study - search for a cause-and-effect relationship between phenomena, facts and events; not only look, but also see the big in the small, notice the particulars.

While focusing on the main issues of the topic, one cannot ignore the so-called indirect facts, which at first glance seem insignificant. It often happens that the beginnings of important discoveries are hidden behind them.

The accumulation of scientific facts in the process of research is always a creative process, which is based on the scientist’s plan, his idea. An idea differs from other forms of thinking and scientific knowledge in that it not only reflects the object of study, but also contains an awareness of the goal, prospects of knowledge and practical transformation of reality. Life presents challenges, but often productive ideas for solving them are not immediately found. Then the researcher’s ability to offer a new, completely unusual aspect of its consideration comes to the rescue.

The development of an idea to the stage of solving a problem is usually carried out as a planned process. Although science knows random discoveries, only planned work, well equipped with modern means, allows one to reveal and deeply understand objective patterns in nature. Scientific research is a very labor-intensive and complex process that requires constant “high intensity” - working “with a spark.” If research is carried out indifferently, it turns into handicraft and never produces anything significant. It is not for nothing that scientific creativity is sometimes compared to a feat. Like a feat, it requires maximum tension of a person’s energy, his thoughts and actions.

Any scientific research, from creative conception to the final design of scientific work, is carried out very individually. But it is still possible to define some general methodological approaches to its implementation, which are usually called study in the scientific sense.

Modern scientific and theoretical thinking strives to penetrate into the essence of the phenomena and processes being studied. This is possible subject to a holistic approach to the object of study, consideration of this object in its emergence and development, i.e. application of a historical approach to its study.

It is known that new scientific results and previously accumulated knowledge are in dialectical interaction.

The best and most progressive from the old passes into the new and gives it strength and effectiveness. Sometimes the forgotten old is revived again on a new scientific basis and lives, as it were, a second life, but in a different, more perfect form.

To study in the scientific sense means to conduct exploratory research, as if looking into the future. Imagination, fantasy, dreams, based on real achievements of science and technology, are the most important factors in scientific research. But at the same time, scientific study is the informed application of scientific foresight, it is a well-thought-out calculation.

To study in the scientific sense means to be scientifically objective. Facts and sides cannot be discarded simply because they are difficult to explain or find practical application for. The fact is that the essence of what is new in science is not always visible to the researcher himself. New scientific facts and even discoveries, due to the fact that their significance is poorly disclosed, can remain in the reserve of science for a long time and not be used in practice.

In scientific research, everything is important. Concentrating attention on the main or key issues of the topic, one cannot ignore the so-called indirect facts, which at first glance seem insignificant. It often happens that it is precisely such facts that hide the beginnings of important discoveries.

In science, it is not enough to establish any new scientific fact; it is important to give it an explanation from the standpoint of modern science, to show its general cognitive, theoretical or practical significance.

The accumulation of scientific facts in the process of research is always a creative process, which is always based on the scientist’s plan, his idea. In a philosophical definition, an idea is a product of human thought, a form of reflection of reality. An idea differs from other forms of thinking and scientific knowledge in that it not only reflects the object of study, but also contains the consciousness of a goal, a perspective of knowledge and a practical transformation of reality.

Ideas are born from practice, observations of the world around us and the needs of life. The ideas are based on real facts and events. Life presents specific challenges, but often productive ideas for solving them are not immediately found. Then the researcher’s ability to offer a new, completely unusual aspect of considering a problem that for a long time could not be solved with the usual approach to the matter or, as they say, tried to solve it “head-on”, comes to the rescue.

The development of an idea to the stage of solving a problem is usually carried out as a planned process of scientific research. Although accidental discoveries are known in science, only planned scientific research, well equipped with modern means, reliably allows one to reveal and deeply understand objective patterns in nature. In the future, there is a process of continuing the targeted and general ideological processing of the initial plan, clarifying, changing, supplementing and developing the planned research scheme.

General diagram of the progress of scientific research

The entire course of scientific research can be represented in the form of the following logical diagram:

1. Justification of the relevance of the chosen topic.

2. Setting the goal and specific objectives of the study.

3. Definition of the object and subject of research.

4. Selection of research methods (techniques).

5. Description of the research process.

6. Discussion of the research results.

7. Formulation of conclusions and evaluation of the results obtained.

Justification of the relevance of the chosen topic - the initial stage of any research. When applied to a dissertation, the concept of “relevance” has one peculiarity. A dissertation, as already indicated, is a qualifying work, and the way its author knows how to choose a topic and how correctly he understands and evaluates this topic from the point of view of timeliness and social significance characterizes his scientific maturity and professional preparedness.

Coverage of relevance should not be verbose. There is no particular need to start describing it from afar. It is enough to show the main thing within one typewritten page - the essence of the problem situation, from which the relevance of the topic will be visible. Thus, the formulation of the problem situation is a very important part of the introduction. Therefore, it makes sense to dwell on the concept of “problem” in more detail.

Any scientific research is carried out in order to overcome certain difficulties in the process of understanding new phenomena, to explain previously unknown facts, or to reveal the incompleteness of old ways of explaining known facts. These difficulties manifest themselves most clearly in so-called problem situations, when existing scientific knowledge turns out to be insufficient to solve new problems of knowledge.

The problem always arises when the old knowledge has already revealed its inconsistency, and the new knowledge has not yet taken a developed form. Thus, a problem in science is a contradictory situation that requires its solution. This situation most often arises as a result of the discovery of new facts that clearly do not fit into the framework of previous theoretical concepts, i.e. when none of the theories can explain newly discovered facts.

The correct formulation and clear formulation of new problems is often no less important than solving them themselves. Essentially, it is the choice of problems, if not entirely, then to a very large extent that determines the strategy of research in general and the direction of scientific research in particular. It is no coincidence that it is generally accepted that to formulate a scientific problem means to demonstrate the ability to separate the main from the secondary, to find out what is already known and what is not yet known to science about the subject of research.

Thus, if the applicant manages to show where the boundary lies between knowledge and ignorance about the subject of research, then it is not difficult for him to clearly and unambiguously define the scientific problem, and, consequently, formulate its essence.

Some dissertation research aims to develop the provisions put forward by one or another scientific school. The topics of such dissertations can be very narrow, which does not detract from their relevance. The purpose of such work is to solve specific issues within the framework of one or another already sufficiently tested concept. Thus, the relevance of such scientific works as a whole should be assessed from the point of view of the conceptual position that the dissertation author adheres to, or the scientific contribution that he makes to the development of the general concept.

Meanwhile, applicants often avoid taking on narrow topics. It is not right. The fact is that works devoted to broad topics are often superficial and have little independence. A narrow topic is studied in more depth and detail. At first it seems that it is so narrow that there is nothing to write about. But as one becomes familiar with the material, this fear disappears, and the researcher discovers aspects of the problem that he had not previously suspected.

Current scientific solutions underlying the dissertation work can be considered as applications for inventions and discoveries if they are novel and have a positive effect.

From proving the relevance of the chosen topic, it is logical to move on to formulation of the purpose of the research undertaken, and also indicate specific tasks to be solved in accordance with this goal. This is usually done in the form of an enumeration (study..., describe..., establish..., find out..., derive a formula, etc.).

The formulation of these problems must be done as carefully as possible, since the description of their solution should form the content of the chapters of the dissertation work. This is also important because the titles of such chapters are born precisely from the formulation of the objectives of the research being undertaken.

The object and subject of research as categories of the scientific process are related to each other as general and particular. The part of an object that serves as the subject of research is identified. It is on this that the dissertation author’s main attention is directed; it is the subject of the research that determines the topic of the dissertation, which is indicated on the title page as its title.

A very important stage of scientific research is selection of research methods, which serve as a tool in obtaining factual material, being a necessary condition for achieving the goal set in such work.

Description of the research process - the main part of the dissertation work, which covers the methodology and technique of research using logical laws and rules.

A very important stage in the course of scientific research is discussion of its results, which is held at meetings of major departments, academic councils, at meetings where a preliminary assessment of the theoretical and practical value of the dissertation and collective feedback are given.

The final stage of scientific research is conclusions, which contain something new and essential that constitutes the scientific and practical results of the dissertation work.

In or among other factors must be listed research methods. Selecting suitable methods, applying them in the process of writing a paper and correctly describing them in the introduction is not an easy task. It is further complicated by the fact that each field of research: psychology, medicine, finance, pedagogy and others, uses its own, narrowly focused methods. Below we will reveal their essence and name their general and special types.

What are research methods?

This is the first question that needs to be addressed. So, research methods are the steps that we take on the way to our work. These are ways that help us solve our problems.

Due to their huge number, there are different classification of research methods, divisions into types, associations into groups. First of all, they are usually divided into two categories: universal and private. The first category is applicable to all branches of knowledge, while the second has a narrower focus and covers those methods that are used strictly in one or another field of science.

Let's consider the following classification in more detail and highlight their types: empirical, theoretical, quantitative and qualitative. Next, we will consider methods applicable in specific areas of knowledge: pedagogy, psychology, sociology and others.

Empirical research methods

This type is based on empirical, that is, sensory perception, as well as on measurement using instruments. This is an important component of scientific research in all fields of knowledge from biology to physics, from psychology to pedagogy. It helps to determine the objective laws in accordance with which the phenomena under study occur.

The following empirical research methods in coursework and other student works can be called basic or universal, because they are relevant for absolutely all areas of knowledge.

  • Studying various sources of information. This is nothing more than a basic collection of information, that is, the stage of preparation for or course work. The information you will rely on can be taken from books, the press, regulations and, finally, from the Internet. When searching for information, you should remember that not all finds are reliable (especially on the Internet), therefore, when selecting information, you should treat them critically and pay attention to the confirmation and similarity of materials from different sources.
  • Analysis of the information received. This is the stage that follows the collection of information. It is not enough to simply find the necessary material, you also need to carefully analyze it, check for logic, reliability, etc.
  • Observation. This method is a focused and attentive perception of the phenomenon under study followed by the collection of information. In order for observation to bring the desired results, you need to prepare for it in advance: make a plan, outline factors that require special attention, clearly define the timing and objects of observation, prepare a table that you will fill out during the work.
  • Experiment. If observation is a rather passive research method, then experiment is characterized by your active activity. To conduct an experiment or series of experiments, you create certain conditions in which you place the subject of research. Next, you observe the reaction of the object and record the results of the experiments in the form of a table, graph or diagram.
  • Survey. This method helps you look deeper into the problem being studied by asking specific questions of the people involved. The survey is used in three variations: an interview, a conversation and a questionnaire. The first two types are oral, and the last is written. After completing the survey, you need to clearly formulate its results in the form of text, chart, table or graph.

Theoretical research methods

Methods for conducting this type of research are abstract and general. They help to systematize the collected material for its successful study.

  • Analysis. To better understand the material, it is necessary to decompose it into its component units and study each in detail. This is what analysis does.
  • Synthesis. Contrasted with analysis, necessary to unite disparate elements into a single whole. We resort to this method to get a general idea of ​​the phenomenon being studied.
  • Modeling. To study a research subject in detail, sometimes you need to place it in a specially created model.
  • Classification. This method is similar to analysis, only it distributes information based on comparison and divides it into groups based on common characteristics.
  • Deduction. In the best traditions of Sherlock Holmes, this method helps to move from the general to the specific. This transition is useful for deeper penetration into the essence of the phenomenon being studied.
  • Induction. This method is the opposite of deduction; it helps to move from a single case to the study of an entire phenomenon.
  • Analogy. The principle of its operation is that we find certain similarities between several phenomena, and then build logical conclusions that other features of these phenomena may coincide.
  • Abstraction. If we ignore the striking properties of the phenomenon being studied, we can identify those characteristics of it that we have not previously paid attention to.

Quantitative Research Methods

This group of methods helps to analyze phenomena and processes based on quantitative indicators.

  • Statistical methods focus on initially collecting quantitative data and then measuring it to study large-scale phenomena. The obtained quantitative characteristics help to identify general patterns and eliminate random minor deviations.
  • Bibliometric methods make it possible to study the structure, interconnection and dynamics of development of phenomena in the documentation and information fields. This includes counting the number of publications made, content analysis, and citation index, i.e. determining the volume of citations from various sources. Based on them, it is possible to track the circulation of the documents being studied and the degree of their use in various fields of knowledge. Content analysis deserves special mention, since it plays an important role when studying a large volume of various documents. Its essence comes down to counting the semantic units that can become certain authors, works, and book release dates. The result of research using this method is information about the information interest of the population and the general level of their information culture.

Qualitative Research Methods

The methods combined in this group are aimed at identifying the qualitative characteristics of the phenomena being studied, so that on their basis we can reveal the underlying mechanisms of various processes in society, including the influence of the media on the consciousness of an individual or certain features of the perception of information by different segments of the population. The main area of ​​application of qualitative methods is marketing and sociological research.

Let's consider the most important methods of this group.

  • In-depth interview. Unlike an ordinary interview, which is empirical, here we are talking about a conversation where a short answer “yes” or “no” is not enough, but detailed, reasoned answers are required. Often, an in-depth interview is conducted in the form of a free conversation in an informal setting according to a pre-drawn plan, and its purpose is to explore the beliefs, values ​​and motivations of respondents.
  • Expert interview. This conversation differs from its in-depth counterpart in that the respondent is an expert competent in the field of interest. Possessing knowledge about the specific aspects of the phenomenon being studied, he expresses a valuable opinion and significantly contributes to scientific research. Often, government officials, university employees, managers and employees of organizations participate in conversations of this kind.
  • Focus group discussions. Here the conversation takes place not one on one, but with a focus group consisting of 10-15 respondents who are directly related to the phenomenon being studied. During the discussion, its participants share their personal opinions, experiences and perceptions of the proposed topic, and based on their statements, a “portrait” of the social group to which the focus group belongs is compiled.

Methods of pedagogical research

In pedagogy, research is carried out using both universal and specific methods necessary to study specific pedagogical phenomena, as well as search for their relationships and patterns. Theoretical methods help identify problems and evaluate collected materials for research, including monographs on pedagogy, historical and pedagogical documents, teaching aids and other documents related to pedagogy. By studying the literature on the chosen topic, we find which problems have already been solved and which are not yet sufficiently covered.

In addition to theoretical ones, pedagogical research also welcomes empirical methods, complementing them with its own specifics. Thus, observation here becomes a focused and attentive perception of pedagogical phenomena (most often these are ordinary or open lessons in schools). Questioning and testing are often used both for students and teaching staff to understand the essence of educational processes.

Among the private methods that relate specifically to pedagogical research are the study of student performance results (tests, independent work, creative and graphic work) and the analysis of pedagogical documentation (student progress logs, their personal files and medical records).

Methods of sociological research

Sociological research is based on theoretical and empirical methods, supplemented by specification of topics. Let us consider how they are transformed in sociology.

  • Analysis of various sources to obtain the most accurate information. Books, manuscripts, videos, audio, and statistical data are studied here. One type of this method is content analysis, which transforms the qualitative factors of the sources being studied into their quantitative characteristics.
  • Sociological observation. Using this method, sociological data is collected by directly studying a phenomenon in its normal, natural conditions. Depending on the purpose of observation, it can be controlled or uncontrolled, laboratory or field, included or uninvolved.
  • Questioning, which in this area turns into a sociological survey. Respondents are asked to fill out a questionnaire, on the basis of which the researcher subsequently receives an array of social information.
  • Interview, that is, an oral sociological survey. During a direct conversation, personal psychological relationships are established between the researcher and the respondent, which contribute not only to obtaining answers to the questions posed, but also to studying the emotional reaction of respondents to them.
  • A social experiment is a study of a particular social process in artificial conditions. It is carried out to test the hypothesis and test ways to control related processes.

Methods of psychological research

Research methods in psychology– these are general scientific empirical and theoretical, as well as private, narrowly focused ones. Mostly research here relies on modified observation and experiment.

Observation in psychology consists of studying mental activity by recording physiological processes and behavioral acts of interest. This oldest method is most effective in the first steps towards studying a problem, since it helps to preliminarily determine the important factors of the processes being studied. The subject of observation in psychology can be the characteristics of people’s behavior, including verbal (content, duration, frequency of speech acts) and non-verbal (facial and body expression, gestures).

Observation is characterized by a certain passivity of the researcher, and this is not always convenient. Therefore, for a more intensive and in-depth study of the mental processes of interest, an experiment is used, which in a psychological context represents a joint activity of the researcher and the subject (or several subjects). The experimenter artificially creates the necessary conditions against the background of which, in his opinion, the phenomena being studied will manifest themselves as clearly as possible. If observation is a passive research method, then experiment is active, because the researcher actively intervenes in the course of the research and changes the conditions for its conduct.

So, we have looked at various research methods that are worthy not only of mention in or, but also of active application in practice.