3.3b Data analysis and evaluating results and conclusions

Question 1

In results, how should data be presented?

Answer 1

in a clear logical manner suitable for analysis.
consideration should be given to the validity of outliers and anomalous results

Question 2

How do you determine weather the differences between means are likely or unlikely to have occurred by chance?

Answer 2

statistical tests

Question 3

What is a statistically significant result?

Answer 3

one that is unlikely to be due to chance alone

Question 4

What do error bars indicate?

Answer 4

the variability of data around a mean

Question 5

What indicates that the difference may have been significant?

Answer 5

if the treatment mean differs from the control mean sufficiently for their error bars not to overlap

Question 6

What should conclusions refer to?

Answer 6

• the aim, the results and the hypothesis
• the validity and reliability of the experimental design should be taken into account
• consideration should be given as to weather the results can be attributed to correlation or causation

Question 7

What should evaluation of conclusions refer to?

Answer 7

existing knowledge and the results of other investigations

Question 8

What do meaningful scientific discussions include?

Answer 8

consideration of findings in the context of existing knowledge and the results of other investigations

scientific writing should reveal an awareness of the contribution of scientific research to increasing scientific knowledge, and to the social, economic and industrial life of the community