Final answer:
Scientific investigations that include making observations often involve field studies and surveys, which allow for data collection in natural environments and through direct interaction, leading to the comprehensive understanding of phenomena.
Step-by-step explanation:
Scientific investigations that involve making observations include various methodologies such as field studies and surveys. Field studies require researchers to collect raw data and make observations in the subject's natural environment. This direct engagement allows for a richer and more authentic set of data that reflects real-world conditions. Similarly, surveys, which often encompass interviews, enable scientists to gather empirical data through questionnaires or direct interaction with subjects. Moreover, interviews provide in-depth insights from experts or participants, complementing the observational data with qualitative information.
Ultimately, these methods are crucial components of the scientific method, which consists of systematic steps like making observations, forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions. Observations made during field studies and collected through surveys help in framing research questions, forming hypotheses, and testing them. This, in turn, leads to new insights and discoveries. The goal of these investigative methods is to build a comprehensive understanding of phenomena through meticulous data collection, organization, and analysis.