Hypothetical method

The hypothetical method refers to methods of the practical and theoretical level. It is based on the development of a hypothesis, a scientific assumption containing elements of novelty and originality. The hypothesis should more thoroughly and better explain the phenomena and processes, be confirmed experimentally, and correspond to the general laws of dialectics and natural science. This method of research is the primary and most common in applied sciences [Розорінов, Співак, p.39]. From the point of view of natural science, the hypothetical method involves the development of a scientific hypothesis based on the study of the physical, chemical, or any other essence of the phenomenon under study using methods of cognition. Then hypotheses are formulated, the algorithm (model) calculation scheme is drawn up, and its study, analysis, and development of theoretical provisions are carried out. With the hypothetical method of cognition, the researcher often turns to idealization – creating objects in the mind that are practically impossible (for example, an ideal gas or an absolute solid). As a result of idealization, natural objects are deprived of some properties and given hypothetical properties [Важинський, Щербак, pp.40–41].

Sources:

Розорінов, Г. М., & Співак, В. М. (2016). Наукова робота за темою магістерської дисертації. Науково-дослідна робота за темою магістерської дисертації. Частина 2. Київ: НТУУ «КПІ.»

Важинський, С. Е., & Щербак, Т. І. (2016). Методика та організація наукових досліджень. Суми: СумДПУ імені А. С. Макаренка.