Key Area 1 - Scientific Principles & Process Flashcards
Scientific Principles & Process
Scientific Method
List what is involved in the scientific cycle:
Scientific cycle — observation; construction
of a testable hypothesis; experimental
design; gathering, recording, and analysis of data; evaluation of results and conclusions; the formation of a revised hypothesis where necessary.
What can scientific knowledge be thought of as?
In science, refinement of ideas is the norm,
and scientific knowledge can be thought of as the current best explanation, which may then be updated after evaluation of further
experimental evidence.
What does the null hypothesis propose?
The null hypothesis proposes that there will
be no statistically significant effect as a result of the experiment treatment.
Failure to find an effect (a negative result) is
a valid finding, as long as an experiment is
well designed. Conflicting data or conclusions can be resolved through careful evaluation or can lead to further experimentation.
If there is evidence for an effect, unlikely due to chance, then the null hypothesis is
rejected.
When can scientific ideas become accepted?
Scientific ideas only become accepted once
they have been checked independently.
Effects must be reproducible; one-off results are treated with caution.
Scientific Literature & Communication
What is the importance of publication?
The importance of publication of methods,
data, analysis, and conclusions in scientific
reports so that others are able to repeat an
experiment.
What are common methods of sharing scientific findings?
Common methods of sharing original
scientific findings include seminars, talks and posters at conferences, and publishing in academic journals.
Explain peer review and critical
evaluation
The importance of peer review and critical
evaluation by specialists with expertise in the relevant field.
Most scientific publications use peer review. Specialists with expertise in the relevant field assess the scientific quality of a submitted manuscript and make recommendations regarding its suitability for publication.
Explain review articles
The use of review articles, which summarise current knowledge and recent findings in a particular field.
Explain the critical evaluation of science coverage in the wider media
Increasing the public understanding of
science, and the issue of misrepresentation
of science.
Scientific Ethics
In animal studies, what concepts are used to avoid, reduce or minimise harm to animals?
In animal studies, the concepts of
replacement, reduction, and refinement are used to avoid, reduce or minimise the harm to animals.
Explain the importance of integrity and honesty
Importance of integrity and honesty —
unbiased presentation of results, citing and
providing references, avoiding plagiarism.
While judgements and interpretations of
scientific evidence may be disputed, integrity and honesty are of key importance in science. The replication of experiments by others reduces the opportunity for dishonesty or the deliberate misuse of science.
What concepts are used in human studies to increase validity of study?
Informed consent, the right to withdraw, and confidentiality in human studies
What justifications and assessments must be made and why?
The justification for scientific research and
the assessment of any risks.
The value or quality of science investigations must be justifiable in terms of the benefits of its outcome, including the pursuit of scientific knowledge. As a result of the risks involved, many areas of scientific research are highly regulated and licensed by governments.
What must be taken into account for an experiment to take place?
The risk to and safety of subject species,
individuals, investigators and the
environment must be taken into account.
What can influence scientific research?
Legislation, regulation, policy and funding
can all influence scientific research.
Legislation limits the potential for the misuse of studies and data.
