Final answer:
The "research wheel" is a metaphor that represents the seven stages of the scientific method and emphasizes the cyclical and iterative nature of research. It encompasses the entire process, from making observations to conducting studies and drawing conclusions, which are integrated into a self-correcting and continuous cycle of scientific inquiry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The "research wheel" refers to the iterative cycle of the scientific method. This approach emphasizes the repetitive and interconnected nature of conducting research, where every phase feeds into the next and the process keeps revolving as new information is gathered and new hypotheses are formed. The characteristics of the research wheel as per your lecture presentation likely relate to the following:
- The research wheel comprises seven stages in the research process.
- Symbolizes the cyclical nature of research, indicating that research does not follow a strict linear path but rather is a continuous cycle of development and refinement.
- It contrasts with a linear approach since the latter suggests a one-directional flow that does not typically loop back upon itself.
- While the research wheel can include conducting experiments as part of its process, it is not exclusively a metaphor for experimentation but rather for the broader scope of scientific inquiry.
Research involves a series of steps that begin with choosing a topic and understanding its connections to various contexts. It includes making observations, formulating a hypothesis, designing and conducting studies, and drawing conclusions which are then re-evaluated and refined, creating a self-correcting system. This process highlights both deductive and inductive reasoning within the circular progression of scientific inquiry.