features of science Flashcards
What does paradigm mean?
A set of shard assumptions and agreed methods within a scientific discipline
What is meant by a paradigm shift?
The result of a scientific revolution: a significant change in the dominant unifying theory within a scientific discipline
What is meant by objectivity?
When all sources of personal bias are minimised so it doesn’t distort or influence the research process
What is meant by an empirical method?
Scientific approaches that are based on the gathering of evidence through direct observation and experience
What is meant by replicability?
The extent to which scientific procedures and finding can be repeated by other researchers
What is meant by falsifiability?
The principle that a theory cannot be considered scientific unless it admits the possibility of being proved untrue
What must the alternative hypothesis have?
A null hypothesis
What is theory construction?
set of general laws or principles that have the ability to explain particular events or behaviours
