Validity - This concerns the integrity of conclusions that are generated through a research study.Replication - This refers to the idea that the procedures (methodology) employed in the study are reported in sufficient detail that a second researcher could repeat the study.If I go back and repeat the measurements in the same conditions will I get the same results? Reliability - Is the research study repeatable? - that is: are the measures used reliable and consistent.The following criteria are commonly used to evaluate scientific research (Bryman 2008). They allow research and therefore knowledge claims to be evaluated. Research methodologies are the rules and procedures by which knowledge is generated and shared. The procedures by which observations are gathered, evaluated, and used to produce new knowledge are termed methodology. Observation is used to develop theory to help us to describe, understand, and predict how our world works. In contrast to the modes listed above, scientific knowledge about the world is based upon empirical observation. Rationalistic - within the school of rationalism knowledge can be derived from the rules of logic and without reference to the empirical world.Mystical - knowledge is sought from the supernatural world.These individuals may be religious or political leaders, kings or 'experts' such as respected scientists. Authoritarian - individuals serve as sources of knowledge by virtue of their social or political position.Three other modes of knowing in human societies can be identified (Frankfort-Nachmias and Nachmias 1996). Scientific method is one means by which knowledge is created however, it is not the only way we know or understand our world. We place special emphasis on the process of research because it is the rigour with which this is carried out (the scientific method) that distinguishes scientific research from other forms of enquiry, and scientific knowledge from other kinds of knowledge.
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