Fundmentals of Research

Research starts at a young age, as one grows a more intricate way of doing research also grows. One learns about the scientific method in an early science class. This probably becomes the most common form of research. The definition of the scientific method is explained, along with the steps taken in the method. The definition of quantitative research and qualitative research is explained and how to use each type is discussed. The question of what mixed method research is will be answered and examples are given regarding when to use, which type of research or combined the two into the mixed method. Concluding with a summary of how these types of research supports a human service manager in his or her position.

The scientific method is defined as a method of problem solving, by testing a hypothesis, observing the results, and the accumulation of research (Rosnow & Rosenthal, 2008, p. 1). In relationship to human services, the scientific method is used to identify an area of concern related to human services (Rosnow & Rosenthal, 2008, p. 2). This method also may be used to determine whether certain programs or services are needed or if they are being used the best possible way.

There are certain steps that need to be followed in order for the method to be accurate. These steps are: The question one wants to determine the answer to, do background research on the question, and develop a hypotheses that can be measured, test the hypotheses to determine whether the hypotheses is true or not, analyze the information that has been determined by the

hypotheses (Science Buddies, 2012). If the hypothesis is true, one can progress to the last step and report the results. If the hypotheses is not true one may start again with a new hypotheses, or one may have determined the answer, the service, which was researched, is not needed at this time. These steps must be followed to come to a factual answer. Skipping a step in the process would yield false results. This would mean the results of one's research is not valid and cannot be used.

An example of the scientific method being used in human service research can be explained like this. Asking the question, does McKean County need a shelter for run-a-ways? Research would be conducted to see if this problem has been conducted before. This will help to let one know with how the scientific method was completed by another person or group. One needs to come up with a hypothesis. Is a shelter for run-a-ways needed in this area? Conduct the needed research, the number of run-a-ways reported in the county. One could also include the number of missing children in the county. This number would be analyzed by the number of children who live in the county. When one finds the results of the conclusion drawn, one can determine if this is a service, which a can be used in the county. One would then report the results. These results can be used to help when requesting funds.

Depending on the type of method, this will determine whether one will use quantitative research or qualitative research. In the preceding mentioned example, one will be using numerical form of research; this type of research is considered quantitative research (Rosnow & Rosenthal, 2008, p. 75). To do the same research with the exception of using research that has been collected in a narrative way and not by numerical research, one is using qualitative research (Rosnow & Rosenthal, 2008, p. 75).

Knowing the type of research one will collect for use in the scientific method, one will be able to determine whether to use quantitative or qualitative. To answer the question of how many,