Ch 2: Scientific Method Flashcards
Second stage
Proposing a hypothesis
Third stage
Designing and conducting an experiment
Fourth stage
Recording and analysing data
Fifth stage
Formulating a conclusion
Observations can be…
Qualitative or quantitative
Qualitative =
Made subjectively
Quantitative =
Made using measurements
First stage
Making an observation
Hypothesis =
Educated guess
Hypothesis can’t be provided but can be..
Supported or disproved
Abundance of evidence to support a hypothesis =
Theory
Aim of an experiment =
To disprove or support hypothesis
Variables =
Factors that can change or vary in an experiment
Independent variable =
Factor being manipulated
Dependent variable
Changes as a result of independent variable
Controlled variable =
Variables kept constant
Uncontrolled variables =
Variables that can reduce validity
Controlled experiment =
When all variables (except Iv) are held constant among all groups
Experimental group =
Undergoes conditions of the independent variable
Control group =
Kept constant, used as a comparison to experimental group
Placebo =
Looks like substance but has no effect, used to control psychologically uncontrolled variables
Double blind experiment =
No one knows who is receiving the independent variable - reduces bias and increases reliability
Well support hypothesis includes:
Sample size, replicates, repeated procedures
Sample size should be..
Large enough to reduce chance or abnormal results
Replicates…
Can reduce effect of unforeseen variables
Repeating procedures..
Eliminates uncontrolled variables
Data usually in the from of… (X4)
Words, diagrams, measurements, graphs
Analysing data involves..
Comparing results between experimental and controlled groups to determine effect of the independent variable
Conclusion =
Statement that relates back to the hypothesis, is supported/disproved by data
