Key science skills Flashcards
(22 cards)
Types of scientific methods
- controlled experiment
- cross sectional studies
- field experiments
- correlational studies
- case studies, individuals, small groups
- observational studies
- self reports/ questionnaires
- simulation studies
- literature reviews
- modelling
- product, process or system development
Aim of a controlled experiment
eliminate variables that could interfere
Variable
measurable factor changes in amount or kind over time
Aim
the focus of the research
Independent Variable (IV)
variable changed/manipulated/varied in order to measure its effect on the DV
Dependent Variable (DV)
what is observed/measured, expected to change due to the IV
Extraneous Variable
Any variable other than the IV that can have an effect/change results of the DV
Confounding variable
a variable present from the beginning to the end that has not been identified at the beginning of the experiment, effect the DV
Controlled Variable
variable that remains constant throughout the whole experiment
Hypothesis
A prediction on the effect of changing the IV on the value/result of the DV
A hypothesis must include…
- IV
- DV
- direction of the experiment
- comparison of groups
Theory
Explanation of a set of findings about behaviour/mental processes
Scientific Method
steps followed to conduct investigation
Population
Group of people who are the focus of the study
Sample
Group of people who participate in study
Random Sampling
every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected
Stratified Sampling
NEED ANSWER!!!!
Random Allocation
Every participant has equal chance of being in either the control or the experimental group
What are the 3 types of errors
- systematic
- random
- personal
Systematic Errors
error is consistent and affects accuracy
Random Errors
hard to predict and change , affect precision
Personal Errors
mistakes made by experimenter , can be both confounding or extraneous variables
