Scientific Principles and Process

Question 1

What are the steps in the scientific cycle?

Answer 1

• Construction of testable hypothesis
• Experimental Deign
• Gathering of Data
• Analysis of Data
• Evaluation of Results
• Determination of conclusions
• Formation of new hypothesis if necessary

Question 2

What is a null hypothesis?

Answer 2

Hypothesis which proposes there is no link between independent and dependent variables

Question 3

What is accuracy determined by?

Answer 3

Scale of measurements being made, limitations of equipment

Question 4

What should analysis of data include?

Answer 4

• Consideration of the accuracy and precision of measurements
• Number of replicates
• Appropriate Statistical Test

Question 5

What are ethics?

Answer 5

Rules for distinguishing between right and wrong

Question 6

What are personal ethics of scientists?

Answer 6

• Results should be presented in an unbiased way

- Scientists should always acknowledge contributions of others to their work

Question 7

What is citation?

Answer 7

Acknowledgement that the idea being discussed is one of another scientist

Question 8

What principles govern animal studies?

Answer 8

Replacement
Reduction
Refinement

Question 9

Describe Replacement in terms of animal studies

Answer 9

Using alternative model systems where avaliable

Question 10

Describe Reduction in terms of animal studies

Answer 10

Using minimum number of animals in a study

Question 11

Describe Refinement in terms of animals studies

Answer 11

Techniques should be adjusted to minimize harm to animals

Question 12

Give some key principles of human studies

Answer 12

1. Informed Consent
2. Right to withdraw data
3. Anonymous and Confidential data
4. Participants should come to no harm

Question 13

What is the direction of science controlled by?

Answer 13

Legislation, regulation, policy and funding priorities