Final answer:
The main elements of research methods include observation, questioning, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and conclusion. Different types of research methods, each with its advantages and drawbacks, are chosen based on the research question.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main elements of research methods can be understood by looking at the steps of the scientific method, which include making observations, identifying a question, conducting background research, forming a hypothesis, and testing the hypothesis. There are also different types of research methods such as surveys, ethnographic field research, formal and informal interviews, historical secondary data analysis, and content analysis. Each of these has its strengths and weaknesses, and they are chosen based on the particular requirements of the research question.
To effectively conduct research, one must first observe natural phenomena or existing literature, infer and propose a hypothesis based on these observations, and then design and perform an experiment to test this hypothesis. This process should include measurable results and, typically, a statistical analysis to validate the findings. Upon completion of the experiment, one must analyze how the data supports or refutes the hypothesis and integrate these results with previous knowledge.