Scientific Tools

Question 0

Theory

Answer 0

A supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained.

Question 1

Hypothesis

Answer 1

A proposition set forth as an explanation for the occurrence of some specified group of phenomena.

Question 2

Data

Answer 2

Facts and statistics collected together for reference or analysis.

Question 3

Observation

Answer 3

The action or process of observing something or someone carefully or in order to gain information.

Question 4

Inference

Answer 4

A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning.

Question 5

Independent variable

Answer 5

The variable that is changed in the experiment.

Question 6

Dependent variable

Answer 6

The variable in a functional relation whose value is dependent upon, or influenced by, an independent variable.

Question 7

Control group

Answer 7

A group in a scientific experiment where the factor being tested is not applied so that it may serve as a standard for comparison against another group where the factor is applied.

Question 8

Experimental group

Answer 8

A group in a scientific experiment where the factor being tested is not applied so that it may serve as a standard for comparison against another group where the factor is applied.

Question 9

Controlled variables (constants)

Answer 9

A variable that remains unchanged or held constant to prevent its effects on the outcome and therefore may verify the behavior of and the relationship between independent and dependent variables.

Question 10

Descriptive research design

Answer 10

Observe and described the behavior of a subject without influencing it in any way.

Question 11

Comparative Research Design

Answer 11

Allows a linkage between factors being identified. Often times, the general term “correlation” is used.

Question 12

Experimental Research Design

Answer 12

Support or disprove a hypothesis with statistical analysis pay attention to quantitative data.

Question 13

Empirical

Answer 13

Depending upon experience or observation alone, without due regard to science and theory; said especially of medical practice, remedies, etc.; wanting in science and deep insight; as, empiric skill, remedies. Empirical formula.

Question 14

Tentative

Answer 14

Of the nature of or made or done as a trial, experiment, or attempt; experimental.

Question 15

Quantitative Data

Answer 15

Deals with numbers.
Data which can be measured.
Length, height, area, volume, weight, speed, time, temperature, humidity, sound levels, cost, members, ages, etc.
Quantitative → Quantity

Question 16

Qualitative Data

Answer 16

Deals with descriptions.
Data can be observed but not measured.
Colors, textures, smells, tastes, appearance, beauty, etc.
Qualitative → Quality

Question 17

Mean

Answer 17

Intend to convey, indicate, or refer to (a particular thing or notion); signify.

Question 18

Median

Answer 18

Denoting or relating to a value or quantity lying at the midpoint of a frequency distribution of observed values or quantities, such that there is an equal probability of falling above or below it.

Question 19

Range

Answer 19

The difference between the lowest and highest values.