features of science

Question 1

Empirical methods

Answer 1

methods refer to the idea that knowledge is gained from direct experiences in an objective,
systematic and controlled manner to produce quantitative data.
- evidence

Question 2

Replicability

Answer 2

Replicability is a key feature of a science, and refers to the ability to conduct research again and achieve consistent results.

Question 3

Falsifiability

Answer 3

Falsifiability (Popper, 1934) refers to the idea that a research hypothesis could be proved wrong.

Question 4

Paradigms

Answer 4

A paradigm is a set of shared assumptions and methods within a particular discipline.

Question 5

paradigm shift

Answer 5

Over time, this challenge becomes popular with other scientists also beginning to challenge it, adding more research to contradict the existing assumptions.
- challenge paradigm

Question 6

theory

Answer 6

A theory is a set of principles that intend to explain certain behaviours or events. However, to construct a
theory, evidence to support this notion needs to be collected first, since the empirical method does not
allow knowledge to be based solely on beliefs.

Question 7

designing a hypothesis

Answer 7

• objective and measurable so that at the end of the investigation a clear decision can be made as to whether results have supported or refuted the hypothesis.
• If findings
  support the hypothesis, then the theory will have been strengthened; if it is refuted, then it is likely that
  alterations will be made to the theory accordingly.