Features of science

Question 1

What is science?

Answer 1

Science is a system of acquiring knowledge through a process known as the scientific method.

Question 2

What are the 3 parts to the scientific method?

Answer 2

Observation and description of a phenomenon, formulation of a hypothesis to explain phenomenon, performance of experimental tests of the predictions.

Question 3

Define replicability.

Answer 3

Being able to repeat a study to check the validity of the results. Therefore research has to be clearly written up so that it can be repeated under identical conditions.

Question 4

Define objectivity.

Answer 4

Observations are made without bias. To lessen the possibility of bias, researchers aim to use standardised instructions.

Question 5

Define falsification.

Answer 5

Scientific statements are capable of being proven wrong through experimentation.

Question 6

What are paradigm shifts?

Answer 6

A revolutionary change in scientific assumptions.