Re: [Phys-l] Is the "Scientific Method" the Same as "Positivism"?

[Ludwik Kowalski <kowalskil@mail.montclair.edu>]

On Sep 27, 2006, at 12:51 AM, Richard Hake wrote:
> ABSTRACT: I agree with Dutta & Bork that research on learning is
> weak, at least in comparison to, say, traditional research in
> hard-core physics. But I think: (a) this relative weakness derives
> more from the complexity of human learning and education than from
> misguided reliance on the "scientific method," as seems to be implied
> by Dutta, and (b) Dutta's identification of the "scientific method"
> with "positivism" is somewhat problematic. . . . .

Most of us are familiar with the scientific method of validation in 
physical sciences. But positivism is less familiar. A brief description 
of positivism can be found in:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Positivism

Ludwik Kowalski
Let the perfect not be the enemy of the good.