How can the conservation and education practices at one school be replicated at others?Ĭase studies formed the major research method in this study, and most data collected was qualitative.How did one school surpass its peers to create record-setting energy conservation?.Students at Rocky Mountain High School surpassed neighboring schools in an energy conservation project. They published their findings in The Journal of Environmental Education. To study topics like irrigation agriculture, rural industries and game parks, environmental social scientists may use empirical research methodologies, such as:Ī collection of researchers in Wisconsin and Colorado, for example, used empirical research to study how one public high school achieved heightened conservation and sustainability. How Environmental Professionals Use Empirical Research Ultimately, an empirical research project should be specific, observable, logically tested and discussed in light of the wider body of knowledge in the subject. These include (1) the research design, (2) the sampling methodology used to target observations, (3) measurement protocols used to collect data on the chosen observations, and (4) the analytical techniques applied to the collected data. There are four primary elements of a research project that need to be developed and carried out to address a research question. Further breaking down the fundamental ingredients of empirical research in A Basic Guide for Empirical Environmental Social Science, author Michael Cox wrote: Many empirical research studies include more than these three components. The researcher notes if the results support the original hypothesis, mentions any limitations on the study and provides thoughts on the implications of this study for future research. In Writing Empirical Papers: Instructions for Beginners, Connie Wolfe of Muhlenberg College wrote, “A discussion section is about ‘what we have learned so far’ and ‘where we should go next.’” This section usually begins by restating the project’s topic and research question, and then it gradually broadens to reflect the paper’s introduction. ![]() “Discussion” might also be seen as reporting the findings. To be empirical, results must be based on observable evidence using one of the senses. Results can be empirical, anecdotal, or logical. “Results” refers to the raw data or evidence produced through an experiment. Qualitative methods, by contrast, are inductive, require participant involvement, use words and do not require a hypothesis. Quantitative methods are deductive, objective, use numbers, require a hypothesis. Most research methods can be broken down into quantitative or qualitative research methodologies. ![]() Method types include case studies, surveys, observation and ethnographic methodology. In empirical research, the term “methods” refers to the techniques researchers use to collect and analyze data. Defining Empirical ResearchĮmpirical research includes three standard components : methods, results and discussion. An example of empirical research in environmental studies might be a project on the possible population displacement effects of rising sea levels. The Pennsylvania State University library defines empirical research as “based on observed and measured phenomena and derives knowledge from actual experience rather than from theory or belief.” Typically, empirical research consists of a specific set of research questions asked of a defined target audience through a specific process. Furthermore, since empirical research cannot be conducted in a laboratory, it is more reflective of the lived experience of people within the target audience.Įmpirical research is one significant method by which environmental social scientists discover new information. These leaders trust empirical research because it is based on direct and indirect observation and submits to the rigors of quantitative and qualitative analysis. Hence, the growing need for clear, definitive and accurate research is not to assuage academic curiosity but to inform national and international decision-makers. The methods of environmental research vary depending on the researcher, the funder and the information desired, but no matter the methodology employed, research is a staple of an environmental professional’s job.Īs environmental social sciences move out of the ivory tower and into the mainstream, they impact the development of public policy, national security and economic stability around the world. Environmental professionals conduct research relevant to areas such as housing, planning, architecture and ecology.
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