U2: scientific process Flashcards
What is the definition of science?
A body of systematic knowledge that covers general truths, principles, and laws
The term ‘science’ also refers to a system of obtaining knowledge.
What must scientific explanations be consistent with?
Known facts and rules of logic.
What is the process that scientists must follow?
A process of reasoning using logical arguments and verifiable information.
What is the study of cause-and-effect in scientific inquiry?
Investigating how one event leads to another.
What does falsification mean in a scientific context?
The principle that hypotheses must be testable to demonstrate whether they are true or false.
What is replicability?
The extent to which a study can be repeated to judge the reliability of results.
Define objectivity in scientific research.
Taking an unbiased external perspective not affected by personal viewpoints.
What is the difference between induction and deduction in reasoning?
Induction uses observations to generate hypotheses; deduction develops hypotheses from theories.
What is hypothesis testing?
The process of testing hypotheses to determine their validity.
What is manipulation of variables?
Changing one variable to see its effect on another variable.
What is control and standardisation in research?
Maintaining consistent conditions to improve the reliability of results.
What are quantifiable measurements?
Data that can be measured and expressed numerically.
What type of reasoning is described as bottom-up?
Inductive reasoning.
What type of reasoning is described as top-down?
Deductive reasoning.
What is empirical evidence?
Knowledge gained through direct experience, often collected as primary data.
What is primary data?
Data collected directly by the researcher.
What is the goal of objectivity in research?
To base data on observable information, free from personal opinion.
True or False: Replication helps to check the objectivity of a study.
True.
What is the importance of standardised procedures in psychology research?
To improve the reliability of results.
Fill in the blank: Science aims to collect data as _______.
primary data.
What is the role of quantitative measures in research?
They facilitate the standardisation of procedures.
What must qualitative data be in order to be used objectively?
Operationalised.
