Chapter 3.2 Hardware Tools of Research

Hardware Tools of Research

The most commonly used hardware tool in research is the computer.  We use this device in order to run software, to measure changes in the autonomic nervous system, and to detect brain damage and other physical problems.  Other instruments that might be seen in social science research might include a device to measure reflexes or muscle strength, or the hardware, such as blocks and puzzles, associated with an intelligence test.  Hardware provides us with a means to interact with our subjects and therefore gather information on their performance.