THE CONSTRUCTION OF SCIENTIFIC KNOWLEDGE

Abstract

This article deals with Science and the construction of scientific knowledge. The text is intended mainly for undergraduate students, and its relevance is based on the need for students to understand the scientific scope, and acquire and build knowledge, especially at the beginning of the course, so that they can expand intellectually, personally, socially, and professionally. Indeed, the appropriation of already consolidated knowledge and the acquisition of new knowledge is possible in many ways, however, the construction of scientific knowledge differs from one branch of knowledge to another. This text presents and discusses issues necessary for the beginning of scientific research: the concept of Science, types of knowledge, scientific language, scientific discursive genres, methodological possibilities, procedures, and instruments for generating data and for analysis, among other issues relevant to scientific practice. The intention is for this text to contribute to the construction of knowledge about the object that it proposes to investigate. One should not think that these are easy tricks nor are they known by everyone who enrolls in undergraduate courses; the reality is different and requires a detailed exposition and explanation, especially for those new to scientific research.