Empirical Research in Systems Engineering:

This paper aims to advance the pedagogy of systems engineering by identifying opportunities and challenges in empirical research in the field. After an introduction to how empirical research could be further utilized in systems engineering, this paper discusses challenges faced when conducting empirical research in systems engineering, threats to validity associated with systems engineering data collection, and considerations for empirical mixedmethods research. Two recently completed systems engineering empirical studies are used to illustrate specific examples. Finally, suggestions are given on how a professional society might provide additional support for researchers completing empirical research in systems engineering. The goal is to describe how the increased use of empirical methods can be used to enrich the quality of research results to enhance the position of systems engineering as a widely recognized academic field. Utilizing well-grounded, valid theory improves understanding of systems engineering phenomena and advances the maturity of the field.