Science

Question 1

Replicability

Answer 1

Replicability - if the outcome is the same this affirms the truth of the original results - important to record experimenters correctly so they can be repeated exactly and results verified

Question 2

Objectivity

Answer 2

Not effected by expectations of researcher

Systematic collection of measurable data

Carefully control conditions in which the experiment is conducted eg lab

Question 3

Theory construction -

Answer 3

Facts alone are meaningless

Explanations help make sense of the facts

Theory is a collection of general principles that help explain observation and fact - these theories can then help us understand and predict natural phenomena around us

Question 4

Hypothesis testing -

Answer 4

Theories modified through this process

Essential characteristic of science as validity of theory is tested

Good theory must be able to generate testable expectations - these are stated in the form of a hypothesis - if these are not met, then the theory requires modification

Question 5

Empirical methods -

Answer 5

Info gained through direct observation or experience rather than by argument or beliefs - aim to collect facts

Important as people can make claims about anything but the only way we know things to be true is through direct testing eg empirical evidence

Question 6

The role of peer review -

Answer 6

Role - allocation of research funding

• publication of research in scientific journals/books
• assessing research ratings of unis

Aims to prevent fraudulent research being published

Criticisms

• finding an expert hard so poor research may be passed reviewer doesn’t fully understand it
• status quo - research consistent with previous findings preferred
• anonymity - used to settle old scores or bury rival research
• publication bias - positive > negative preferred and replications rarely published
• once it’s out there it’s out there - peer review research can be debunked but still in circulation eg in parliament