Overview

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This course teaches the fundamentals of scientific research. We approach the research process as a means of systematically reducing uncertainty and demonstrate how conducting a scientific investigation can be posed as an exercise in Bayesian uncertainty quantification. We begin by exploring the scientific landscape to understand the different types of research, where they are conducted, how they are supported, and why each of these types of research is important. We then formalize scientific inquiry and the scientific method and elaborate the research process and its scientific merits. Basic concepts in probability theory are introduced leading to a conceptually simple presentation of Bayes’ Rule. We then illustrate how Bayes’ Rule provides a mathematical framework for the research process. We place an emphasis on the role that research plays in our daily and professional lives and how research skills can help us think critically, whether you’re in a technical field or not. Exercises are designed to help you improve your research skills and think more scientifically. Learners who are new to research fields or would like to improve their research skills in any field for career/professional or personal growth are encouraged to enroll. The course is taught at an introductory level such that, by the end of the course, you will be able to formulate a research hypothesis and devise a scientific research plan to test that hypothesis. To be successful in this course, you will need entrance-level college mathematics.

Syllabus

Introduction to the Research Landscape

his module introduces the landscape of scientific research and its role in advancing knowledge and society. You will explore why research is conducted, who conducts it, and the various environments where research takes place, including universities, government, and industry. The module also examines the range of research activities and how different institutions contribute to scientific discovery.

Scientific Inquiry

This module explores the foundations of scientific inquiry and what distinguishes scientific explanations from non-scientific ones. You will examine methods of inquiry and learn how scientists evaluate evidence when investigating questions. The module also discusses pseudoscience and how scientific thinking helps identify credible explanations.

Scientific Method & the Research Process

This module examines the scientific method and the structured process researchers use to investigate questions. You will learn key terminology used in scientific investigations, including hypotheses and theories, and how they guide research design. The module also explains the steps involved in conducting systematic and evidence-based research.

Uncertainty & Probability

This module introduces how uncertainty appears in scientific investigations and how it can be analyzed using probability. You will learn key probability concepts, including conditional probability and Bayes’ Rule. These ideas help researchers interpret uncertain information and support data-driven reasoning.

Research as an Exercise in Uncertainty Quantification (UQ)

This module connects the research process with uncertainty quantification and Bayesian reasoning. You will explore how hypotheses are developed and tested using Bayesian hypothesis testing. The module highlights how researchers design studies and interpret results while accounting for uncertainty in data.