How to Design and Analyze Experiments

Question 1

Descriptive Science

Answer 1

Observe, describe and categorize the facts. Fishing expeditions/pattern recognition.

Question 2

Discovery Science

Answer 2

Measure variables to decide general patterns based on inductive reasoning.

Question 3

Hypothesis-driven science

Answer 3

Make and Test hypothesis using deductive reasoning.

Question 4

Applied Science

Answer 4

Use theory and tech to solve Real world problems.

Question 5

Logical Steps in Hypothesis driven science?

Answer 5

1. Observation
2. Question
3. Hypothesis
4. Prediction
5. Experiment

Question 6

What are the two outcomes of an experiment?

Answer 6

Experiment supports hypothesis: Make more predictions and test them Experiment does not support hypothesis: Revise or pose new hypothesis.

Question 7

Variable definition

Answer 7

Factors or conditions that can vary and thus influence the results. Only test one variable at a time.

Question 8

3 Types of Variables

Answer 8

• Independent Variable
  
  • What you change or manipulate
• Dependent variable
  
  • Changes because of independent variable changing
• Control Variables
  
  • no charges at all, these must all be kept the same in experiment

Question 9

Derived Data

Answer 9

Data that has been manipulated from its raw form. Its important to keep a good paper trail.

Question 10

Considerations and Common issues of research design

Answer 10

Training of staff conducting analyses

Reliabilty and Validity

Extent of analysis