Chapter 1: The Scientific Process
1903, Simon Newcomb wrote The Outlook for the Flying machine mankind will never build useful airplane
Dec 16, 1903 Orville and Wilbur Wright make first flight
Human knowledge and understanding is changed by new discoveries, inventions, insights etc.
Research in Sport and Exercise Sciences
Slowikowski and Newell (write articles) discuss the lack of a common name among depts. In the field
S&E historically took place in the PE dept. at most universities and colleges
Divided into several overlapping sub disciplines including:
Adapted physical education
Biomechanics
Exercise physiology
Biochemistry
Growth and development
Sport nutrition
Sport sociology
Measurement and evaluation
Motor behavior
Sport History
Sport Psychology
Why Study Research Methods?
Enhance understanding of other courses such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, or motor behavior
Know how to read and interpret journal articles
Various diff. techniques used in advertising
Parity Claims
Careful wording of an advertisement, gives impression that one product is superior to another
Wording essentially means the two are the same
Ex. Advil: “Nothing is proven more effective or longer lasting” Wording means that other pain medications are as equally effective
Testimonials
Statement providing evidence in support of the claim
Strength and fitness magazines and late night infomercials offer testimonials
Only show people who have showed excelling results, don’t represent what will happen to the average person under similar conditions
Statistical Information
The statistics that are given are usually difficult to evaluate and interpret and therefore are meaningless
Must ask ourselves where these numbers come from, what comparisons are being made
Gaining Knowledge
Main goal of research is gathering and interpreting info to answer questions
Basic Research cycle: 1) Ask a question 2) Make initial observations