Chapter 4: Scientific foundations
Abstract
This chapter summarizes the scientific foundations of empirical and experimental research in HCI. We define and examine the nature of research, empirical research, and the scientific method, while distinguishing research from design and engineering. Concepts such as observation, measurement, internal validity, external validity, and formulating testable research questions are explained and demonstrated through examples. Four tips for finding a research topic are presented.
Keywords
research; empirical research; experimental research; the scientific method; observation; measurement; internal validity; external validity; research methods; research questions; circumstantial relationships; causal relationships; ...
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