U1 Definitions Flashcards
Pattern
Observable features of the natural world that occur repeatedly
–> Based on observation (the “what”)
Processes
Include the causes of a pattern
–> Based on inferences, logic, deduction, and explanation (the “why”)
Law
A descriptive generalization about the world (the what):
–> Repeated patterns (“what happens”)
–> “Cookbook science”
Theory
Explanations for the laws (the why):
–> Well substantiated explanation of some aspect of the natural world
Explanation
Causal accounts of why something happens (doesn’t always become a theory)
Model
A tool built using observations and inferences that advances understanding and helps to build an explanation
Hypothesis
Testable statements (can be shown to be supported or falsified)
–> Used to test if the model is supported or not
Prediction
Will always have a TIME element
(when, will, if, then)
Order of Reasoning
Observation + Inferences = Model
Model –> Hypotheses –> Test = Explanation
Characteristics of Good Scientific Model
1) Account for all data at hand
2) Predict the results of future tests
3) Be consistent with prior knowledge (logically consistent)
4) Advance understanding
Physical Models
Build in the “real world”: Tangible
(EX: Organismal models –> Mice)
Conceptual Models
Drawings or diagrams that are used to advance understanding for the used of the model
Mathematical Models
Quantitative indicators using numerical symbols
(EX: computer simulations)
Association Study
Tests for relationships between variables (correlation)
–> No manipulation of variables
Comparison Study
Tests for differences in one or more variables between 2+ conditions or groups
–> No manipulation of variables
–> No random assignment or control group