Research activities: logic and methodology

Abstract

Introduction. The paper reveals the peculiarities and interrelation of such categories as science, scientific activities, research activities. Research activity is defined as a purposeful cognitive process, which has its own logic and methodology, a system of concepts, laws and categories. This activity is associated with justifying the need for scientific inquiry and solving theoretical and practical tasks, as well as with conducting research and experiments in order to expand existing and obtain new knowledge.Aim. To develop professional competences related to the understanding of theoretical and methodological foundations of research activities. The study revealed the essence and content of research activities, their compliance with established standards and rules. The main content characteristics of research activities were analyzed: relevance of scientific research, its object, subject, aim, objectives, validity of results, evidence of generalizations and conclusions of scientific research.Materials and methods. The paper analyzes the applied meaning of the concept of methodology as a system of approaches and principles of practical and theoretical research activities, on which the researcher relies in applying the research methods. As an example, the content of practical methods – observation and experiment – is revealed. Observation is defined as a research-focused, deliberate and purposeful perception of phenomena and processes without direct intervention in their course. Experiment as a method that involves research under controlled and managed conditions.