Unit 3 Flashcards
What is a null hypothesis?
A null hypothesis proposes no link between the independent and dependent variables?
Describe the scientific cycle?
Make an observation
Establish a hypothesis
Design an experiment
Collect and analyse data
Evaluate results
Revise the hypothesis
State the definition of valid.
A variables are controlled and suitable controls are established.
State the definition of reliable.
The experiment has been independently replicated.
State three methods of publishing your findings.
Conferences, journals and presentations
Define peer review
Specialists with expertise in the relative field evaluate the scientific quality of a submitted manuscript.
When would you loose your scientific method
Trying to hide an invalid method or bias
What is bias/error?
A sample that does not reflect the population e.g placing the quadrant only where daisies are growing densely
What is meant by a conflict of interest?
Involves a person with two interests competing against each other for loyalty.
Give a brief description of the three Rs.
Replacement - The use of animals in testing should be replaces with something else as often as possible.
Refinement - The method should be refined to reduce the pain inflicted on animals.
Reduction - The number of animals used in a study should be reduced as much as possible.
State the three requirements that must be adhered to when carrying out an experiment.
Informed consent - Participants should be given details of the experiment and the opportunity to withdraw.
Right to withdraw data - Participants should have the right to withdraw their data from the study up until publication.
Confidentiality - Participants should remain anonymous in order to protect the rights of the participants
State the three things that can influence a scientific experiment.
Risk assessments must take into account any potential harm to humans and animals involved and any impact on the environment.
Regulation - Government policy aims to prevent potential misuse of data
Funding - may influence the pace and direction of a study.
What is a pilot study
A pilot study is a preliminary study designed to evaluate an experimental design
