Scientific approach refers to bodies of techniques for investigating phenomena, acquiring new knowledge, or correcting and integrating previous knowledge. To be termed scientific, a method of inquiry must be based on gathering observable, empirical and measurable evidence subject to specific principles of reasoning.[1] A scientific method consists of the collection of data through observation and experimentation, and the formulation and testing of hypotheses.[2] Although procedures vary from one field of inquiry to another, identifiable features distinguish scientific inquiry from other methodologies of knowledge. Scientific researchers propose hypotheses as explanations of phenomena, and design experimental studies to test these hypotheses. These steps must be repeatable in order to dependably predict any future results. Theories that encompass wider domains of inquiry may bind many hypotheses together in a coherent structure. This in turn may help form new hypotheses or place groups of hypotheses into context.
Science Research and the Process of Science -Inquiry Based Research is a process by which people discover or create new knowledge about the world in which they live. The ISEF and Affiliated Fairs are research (data) driven. Students design research projects that provide quantitative data through experimentation followed by analysis and application of that data. Projects that are demonstrations, 'library' research or informational projects, 'explanation' models or kit building are not appropriate for research based science fairs. Questioning is probably the most important part of a scientific investigation and is often followed by an "if.then" statement. Students are encouraged to design 'controlled' experiments, ones that allow them to set up a standard and then change only one variable at a time to see how that variable might affect the original condition tested as the standard. Thus, questioning usually leads to experiments or observations. Good scientists, both young and old, frequently use a process to study what they see in the world. This process has been referred as the 'Scientific Method' or more recently as the 'Inquiry Cycle'. The following stages listed below will help you produce a good scientific experiment:	Visit science buddies to specific steps to this method.	Non Inquiry Based Research   Not all areas of study are best served by scientific method based research. Because engineers, inventors, mathematicians, theoretical physicists, and computer programmers have different objectives than those of other scientists, they follow a different process in their work. The process that they use to answer a question or solve a problem is different depending on their area of study. Each one uses their own criteria to arrive at a solution.   Engineering Projects: "Scientists try to understand how nature works; engineers create things that never were." An engineering project should state the engineering goals, the development process and the evaluation of improvements. Engineering projects may include the following: Define a need or "How can I make this better?" Develop or establish design criteria (could be more than one) Do background research and search the literature to see what has already been done or what products already exist that fill a similar need. What make them good and what makes them weak? Prepare preliminary designs and a materials list. Consider costs, manufacturing and user requirements. Build and test a prototype of your best design. Consider reliability, repair and servicing. Retest and redesign as necessary. Product testing. Present results   Computer Science Projects: These often involve creating and writing new algorithms to solve a problem or improve on an existing algorithm. Simulations, models or 'virtual reality' are other areas on which to conduct research.   Mathematics Projects: These involve proofs, solving equations, etc. Math is the language of science and is used to explain existing phenomena or prove new concepts and ideas.   Theoretical Projects: These projects may involve a thought experiment, development of new theories and explanations, concept formation or designing a mathematical model.