Learning Objectives

After reading this chapter, you should be able to:

  1. Define science and the scientific method.
  2. Describe six steps for engaging in the scientific method.
  3. Describe five nonscientific methods of acquiring knowledge.
  4. Identify the four goals of science.
  5. Distinguish between basic and applied research.
  6. Distinguish between quantitative and qualitative research.
  7. Delineate science from pseudoscience.