Features of a Science

Question 1

What are the key features of Science?

Answer 1

Hypothesis Testing

Empirical evidence

Falsifiability

Replicability

Objectivity

Theory Construction

Paradigms

Paradigm shift

Question 2

What is Hypothesis testing?

Answer 2

A key feature of a theory is that it should be able to produce statements (Hypothesis), which then can be scientifically tested. Only in this way can a theory be falsified.

Question 3

What is objectivity?

Answer 3

This is when all sources of personal bias must be minimised so that the research process or results are not influenced or distorted.

Question 4

What is Empirical method?

Answer 4

Are scientific approaches that are based on the gathering of evidence through direct observation and experience.

Question 5

What is Replicability?

Answer 5

The extent to which scientific procedures and findings can be repeated by other researchers.

Question 6

What is Falsifiability?

Answer 6

The principle that a theory cannot be considered scientific unless it admits the possibility of being proved untrue/ false.

Question 7

What is Theory Construction?

Answer 7

The process of developing an explanation for the causes of behaviour by systematically gathering evidence via direct observation and then organising this into a coherent account (theory)

Question 8

What is a paradigm?

Answer 8

It is a set of shared assumptions and agreed methods within a scientific discipline.

Question 9

What is a Paradigm shift?

Answer 9

The results of a scientific revolution when there is a significant change in the dominant unifying theory within a scientific discipline.