Scientific Principles and Process 3.1 Flashcards
what does the scientific cycle involve?
- observation
- construction of a testable hypothesis
- experimental design
- gathering, recording and analysis of data
- evaluation of results and conclusions
- formation of revised hypothesis where necessary
what is the characteristic of the scientific process?
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?
that there will be no statistically significant effect as a result of experiment treatment
when can a failure to find an effect (a negative result) be a valid finding?
when an experiment is well designed
how can conflicting data or conclusions be resolved?
through careful evaluation or can lead to further experimentation
what happens if there is evidence for an effect?
null hypothesis is rejected
when do scientific ideas become accepted?
once they have been checked independently
the effects must be what?
reproducible
what type of results are treated with caution?
one-off results
why is the publication of methods, data, analysis and conclusions in scientific reports important?
so that others are able to repeat an experiment
what are common methods of sharing original scientific findings?
- seminars
- talks
- posters at conferences
- publishing in academic journals
what is peer review?
the review of scientific publications and critical evaluations by specialists with expertise in the relevant field are essential to the scientific process
what do most scientific publications use?
peer review
what are review articles and why are they essential to scientists undertaking new research in that field?
they summarise current knowledge and recent findings in a particular field
what does science coverage in the wider media require before it should be accepted?
critical evaluation
what has there been increases of?
- public understanding of science
- the issue of misrepresentation of science
what are important in scientific reports?
- unbiased presentation of results citing and providing references
- avoiding plagiarism
while judgements and interpretations of scientific evidence may be disputed, what are of key importance in science?
integrity and honesty
what does the replication of experiments by others reduce?
the opportunity for dishonesty or the deliberate misuse of science
what concepts are used to avoid, reduce or minimise harms to animals?
- replacement
- reduction
- refinement
what are key factors in human studies?
- informed consent
- right to withdraw
- confidentiality
the value of quality of science investigations must be justifiable in terms of that?
the benefits of its outcome, including the pursuit of scientific knowledge
what is the result of many risks being involved in scientific investigations?
many areas. of scientific research are highly regulated and licensed by governments
what must be taken into account when it comes to risk and safety?
- subject species
- individuals
- investigators
-environment
what can influence scientific research?
- legislation
- regulations
- policy
- funding
what does legislation limit?
the potential for the misuse of studies and data
