EXPERIMENTAL METHOD: CHARACTERISTICS, STAGES, EXAMPLE - SCIENCE - 2025

The experimental method, also known as scientific-experimental, is characterized because it allows the researcher to manipulate and control the variables of an investigation as much as possible, with the intention of studying the relationships that exist between them with the bases of the scientific method.

It is a process used to investigate phenomena, acquire new knowledge, or correct and integrate previous knowledge. It is used in scientific research and is based on systematic observation, taking measurements, experimentation, formulating tests, and modifying hypotheses.

In the experimental method, the researcher has total control over the variables considered. Source: pixabay.com

This general method is carried out in the different branches of science; biology, chemistry, physics, geology, astronomy, medicine, etc. The main characteristic of the experimental method involves the manipulation of the variables. Thanks to this, it is possible to observe and record the behaviors of these variables, in order to anticipate results and explain behaviors or circumstances.

The experimental method seeks to obtain information that is as accurate as possible and unambiguous. This is achieved thanks to the application of control operations and procedures; Through these it can be affirmed that a certain variable influences in such a way another.

characteristics

- In the experimental method the researcher has absolute control over the variables.

- It is based on the scientific method.

- The purpose of the experimental method is to study and / or anticipate the relationships that are generated between the variables that are taken into account in the research.

- Seeks to collect data that is as accurate as possible.

- The variables considered in the experimental method can be manipulated according to the researchers' needs.

- The measuring instruments used must have a high level of accuracy and precision.

- The manipulation of the variables allows the researcher to create the optimal scenario that allows him to observe the desired interactions.

- Since the researcher produces the conditions he needs when he requires them, he is always ready to observe them effectively.

- In the experimental method the conditions are totally controlled. Therefore, the researcher can replicate the experiment to confirm his hypothesis, and can also promote verifications by other independent researchers.

- The experimental method can be applied in studies that are exploratory in nature or that seek to confirm studies done previously.

Stages of the experimental method

Below we will detail nine stages that a researcher must go through when applying the experimental method in an investigative work:

State the problem and observations

It consists of the description of the main reason for which an investigation is carried out. There must be unknown information that you want to know. It must be a problem or situation that can be solved and whose variables can be measured with precision.

The problem arises from observations, which must be objective, not subjective. In other words, the observations must be able to be verified by other scientists. Subjective observations, based on personal opinions and beliefs, are not part of the field of science.

Examples:

• Objective statement: in this room the temperature is at 20 ° C.
• Subjective statement: it's cool in this room.

State the hypothesis

The hypothesis is the possible explanation that can be given in advance to an unknown phenomenon. This explanation seeks to relate the variables to each other and anticipate what type of relationship they have.

Hypotheses usually have similar structures using a conditional mode. For example, “if X (…), then Y (…)”.

Define the variables

In the statement of the problem, the main variables that will be taken into account are already considered. When defining the variables, it is sought to characterize them in the most precise way possible, in order to study them efficiently.

It is very important that there are no ambiguities in the definition of the variables and that they can be operationalized; that is, they can be measured.

At this point it is very important to also consider all those external variables that can directly influence those that will be considered in the study.

You must have absolute control of the variables to observe; otherwise, the results generated by experimentation will not be entirely reliable.

Define an experimental design

In this phase of the experimental method, the researcher must define the path through which he will carry out his experiment.

It is about describing in detail what steps the researcher will follow to achieve the objective of the study.

Carry out the procedure and collect the corresponding data

Generalizar

Esta fase puede ser de mucha importancia para determinar la trascendencia que pueden tener los resultados de un estudio determinado. A través de la generalización puede extrapolarse la información obtenida y extenderla a poblaciones o escenarios de mayor alcance.

El alcance de la generalización dependerá de la descripción que se haya hecho de las variables observadas y de qué tan representativas sean con relación a un conjunto en particular.

Predecir

Con los resultados obtenidos es posible hacer una predicción que intente plantear cómo sería una situación similar, pero que aún no haya sido estudiada.

Esta fase puede dar cabida a un nuevo trabajo investigativo centrado en un enfoque distinto del mismo problema desarrollado en el estudio actual.

Presentar las conclusiones finales

- The statement of the problem that has been observed is the following: some children feel little motivation to learn in the classroom. On the other hand, it has been determined that, in general, children are motivated to interact with technology.

- The research hypothesis is that the incorporation of technology in the educational system will increase the motivation of children between 5 and 7 years of age to learn in the classroom.

- The variables to be considered are a set of children between 5 and 7 years of age from a specific educational institution, an educational program that includes the use of technology in all the subjects taught and the teachers who will implement said program.

- The experimental design can be described as follows: teachers will apply the chosen program to children for a whole school year. Each session includes an activity that seeks to measure the level of motivation and understanding that each child has. The data will be collected and analyzed later.

- The data obtained indicate that the children increased their levels of motivation in relation to the period prior to the application of the technological program.

- Given these results, it is possible to project that a technological program can increase motivation in children between 5 and 7 years of age from other educational institutions.

- Likewise, it can be predicted that this program will also have positive results if applied to older children, and even adolescents.

- Thanks to the study carried out, it can be concluded that the application of a technology program promotes the motivation of children between 5 and 7 years of age to learn in the classroom.

References

1. "Scientific method" at the National Autonomous University of Mexico. Retrieved on October 31, 2019 at the National Autonomous University of Mexico: unam.mx
2. "The experimental method" at the National Institute of Educational Technologies and Teacher Training. Retrieved on October 31, 2019 at the National Institute of Educational Technologies and Teacher Training: educalab.es
3. "The experimental method" at the University of Jaén. Retrieved on October 31, 2019 at the University of Jaén: ujaen.es
4. Murray, J. "Why do experiments" in Science Direct. Retrieved on October 31, 2019 in Science Direct: sciencedirect.com
5. "Experimental Method" at Indiana University Bloomington. Retrieved on October 31, 2019 at Indiana University Bloomington: indiana.edu
6. Dean, A. "Experimental design: overview" in Science Direct. Retrieved on October 31, 2019 in Science Direct: sciencedirect.com
7. Helmenstein, A. “Six Steps of the Scientific Method” in Thought Co. Retrieved October 31, 2019 at Thought Co: thoughtco.com