science features Flashcards
What is objectivity in scientific research?
Objectivity in research means that the study’s results and conclusions are not influenced by the researcher’s personal feelings or biases. The goal is to remain neutral and impartial.
What is the empirical method in scientific research?
The empirical method involves gathering data through direct observation or experiment rather than relying on theory or intuition. This approach ensures that conclusions are based on observable evidence.
What does replicability mean in scientific research?
Replicability refers to the ability of a study to be repeated with the same methods and conditions, leading to the same results. It is crucial for confirming the reliability of findings.
What is falsifiability in science?
Falsifiability is the principle that a hypothesis or theory must be testable and capable of being proven wrong through experimentation or observation.
What is theory construction in scientific research?
Theory construction involves developing an organized set of concepts and principles that explain observed phenomena. A theory is developed through testing and refinement over time.
What is hypothesis testing?
Hypothesis testing involves making predictions based on a theory and then conducting experiments or observations to see if the predictions are supported or refuted by the data.
What are paradigms in scientific research?
Paradigms are the generally accepted theories, methodologies, and assumptions that guide scientific research within a particular field. They shape the way questions are asked and investigated.
What is a paradigm shift?
A paradigm shift occurs when a fundamental change happens in the basic concepts and experimental practices of a scientific discipline, often in response to accumulating contradictory evidence.
What is an abstract in a scientific report?
The abstract is a concise summary of the entire study, including the aims, methods, results, and conclusions. It provides a brief overview of the research for readers.
What is included in the introduction section of a scientific report?
The introduction outlines the background information, presents the research question, and reviews relevant literature. It also explains the purpose of the study and the hypotheses being tested.
What is included in the method section of a scientific report?
The method section describes how the study was conducted, including the design, participants, materials, procedure, and any ethical considerations. It provides enough detail for replication.
What is included in the results section of a scientific report?
The results section presents the data obtained from the study, including statistical analyses, tables, and graphs. It focuses on reporting findings without interpretation.
What is included in the discussion section of a scientific report?
The discussion interprets the results, compares them with previous research, and explains their significance. It also addresses limitations and suggests areas for future research.
What is referencing in a scientific report?
Referencing is the practice of citing the sources of information used in the research. It gives credit to original authors and allows readers to verify sources. Proper referencing follows a specific citation style.
Why is objectivity important in scientific research?
Objectivity is important because it ensures that research findings are not influenced by personal biases or opinions, making the results more valid and credible.
What is the importance of replicability in science?
Replicability is important because it confirms the reliability of findings. If a study can be replicated and produces the same results, it strengthens the validity of the original conclusions.
Why is falsifiability a key feature of scientific theories?
Falsifiability is key because it allows for theories to be tested and potentially disproven. A theory that cannot be proven wrong is not scientifically useful.
Why are paradigms and paradigm shifts significant in scientific progress?
Paradigms provide a framework for understanding the world, but paradigm shifts lead to scientific advancements when the existing framework is no longer able to explain new findings.
Why are the sections of a scientific report important?
The sections of a scientific report ensure that the research process is clearly and systematically documented, allowing others to evaluate, replicate, or build on the work.
How does the abstract contribute to a scientific report?
The abstract provides a brief, comprehensive overview of the study, allowing readers to quickly understand the main points of the research and decide whether to read the full report.
Why is referencing important in scientific writing?
Referencing is important because it acknowledges the work of other researchers, provides evidence for claims made in the report, and allows others to follow up on sources.
