Chapter 1- The Nature of Science Flashcards
Scientific Method
The principles and procedures used in the systematic pursuit of knowledge.
Observation
Act of noting or recording something experienced (seen, heard, etc.)
Hypothesis
Proposed explanation made as a starting point for further investigation
Null Hypothesis
Assumes findings are due to chance alone
Alternate Hypothesis
Assumes there is some sort of correlation or causal trend to be investigated
Experiment
A procedure undertaken to test a hypothesis
Variable
Things or events than can affect the outcome of an experiement
Independent variable
A manipulated factor whose cariation is determined by the investigator
Dependent Variable
Factor whose variation depends on another factor present
Positive Control
Should give the desired outcome of the experiement
Negative Control
Should show no response to the experiment
Range
The upper and lower limits of the data set
Mean
average of the data set, a calculated central value
Standard Deviation
A measure of the dispersion, relates to the precision of the data set
Standard Error of the Mean
How far “off” from the central value, relates to accuracy of the data set
Conclusion
A final answer or explanation
Discussion
Interpretation of the data and projections as to the meaning of the results
Sampling Error
An error resulting from the under representation or lack of representation for a particular factor
Accuracy
State of being correct, nearness to “true” value
Precision
The resolution of the representation, consistency among values
Confounder
Factor that masks the true relationship of the independent and dependent variables
Theory
A testable prediction based upon stipulated hypotheses
Principle/Law
An accepted or professed rule
