Tend to be used interchangeably. Thesis – ideas, concepts, generated knowledge (hypothesis). Dissertation – document explaining and presenting evidence for thesis.
Learning
Learning and development resources and notes.
Prediction
Key way to test hypothesis and resulting theory is by prediction. Example Newton’s laws of motion allow us to predict how an object will behave in certain circumstances. First law states “Every object persists in its state of rest, or of uniform motion in a straight line, unless it is compelled to change Continue Reading
Theory
Scientifically, theory is hypothesis tested (by experiment, observation) to be true to extent of our current knowledge. Example Sky is blue because sunlight is scattered and refracted by particles in atmosphere. Scientific theories open to further investigation/examination. Scientific method – body of techniques for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or Continue Reading
Hypothesis
Tentative explanation for observation, phenomenon, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation. Example: Question: Why is the sky blue? Hypothesis: Because someone painted a big sheet and dropped it over the world. Research: Get in space rocket and go to the big blue sheet. Results: Couldn’t find Continue Reading
Terminology
Research has to be focused. Need a clear target to stay focused on. Avoid going off on tangents. Some terminology: Hypothesis Theory Prediction Thesis and Dissertation
Research Activity 04
Looking at the two research examples again (tracking Ospreys and Tim Berners-Lee), what research questions are they trying to answer? Have they found their answers yet? What related questions are now being researched or could be researched in the future? Osprey tracking I think the research questions may be “Where Continue Reading
How do I come up with a research question?
May be something that annoys you about computers & how they work. “Why doesn’t someone make computers do this or that?” – like Tim Berners-Lee. Starts with general interest in subject followed up by reading then a question emerges as knowledge grows.
Research questions
Research – answering questions. To start research, need at least one question. Large project may have more than one question. Too many questions – unable to answer them all, research will lack focus. Generally, 3-5 related questions. Should be refined to fairly basic terms: Why does this happen? How does Continue Reading
Research Activity 03
Verification of statements Try to find where and when Einstein made the declaration “nuclear power was impossible because it would require the splitting of the atom at will.”. What conclusion could you draw if you can’t find anything reliable to support the assertion that he made the statement about splitting Continue Reading
Research cycle
Not linear, never “finished” – it’s a cyclical process. Research throws up more questions than it answers. Not all questions can be answered – not enough time or resource. Further research of something leads to refinement. Can call previous research/concepts into doubt. Einstein said that nuclear power would be impossible Continue Reading