UNIT 3 - KA1 Flashcards
What are the stages of the scientific cycle
Scientific cycle — observation; construction of a testable hypothesis; experimental design; gathering, recording, and analysis of data; evaluation of results and conclusions; the formation of a revised hypothesis where necessary
What can be thought of as the current best explanation in science
In science, refinement of ideas is the norm, and scientific knowledge can be thought of as the current best explanation, which may then be updated after evaluation of further experimental evidence.
What is the null hypothesis
The null hypothesis proposes that there will be no statistically significant effect as a result of the experiment treatment.
Explain when the null hypothesis is rejected
If there is evidence for an effect unlikely due to chance the null hypothesis is rejected
Convert to null hypothesis - tomato plants exhibit a higher growth rate when planted in compost rather than soil
Null hypothesis - tomato plants do not exhibit a higher rate of growth when planted in compost rather than soil
What is a failure to find an effect
Failure to find an effect (a negative result) is a valid finding, as long as an experiment is well designed.
How can conflicting data or conclusions be resolved
Conflicting data or conclusions can be resolved through careful evaluation or can lead to further experimentation.
When should scientific ideas become accepted
Scientific ideas only become accepted once they have been checked independently
Why is it that effects should be reproducible
Effects must be reproducible; one-off results are treated with caution.
What are publication of scientific reports important
The importance of publication of methods, data, analysis, and conclusions in scientific reports so that others are able to repeat an experimen
What are common methods in which original scientific findings can be shared
Common methods of sharing original scientific findings include seminars, talks and posters at conferences, and publishing in academic journals.
What is peer review
Most scientific publications use peer review. Specialists with expertise in the relevant field assess the scientific quality of a submitted manuscript and make recommendations regarding its suitability for publication.
What are review articles
The use of review articles, which summarise current knowledge and recent findings in a particular field
What is the risk of wider media as a method of communication
Increasing the public understanding of science as the issue of misrepresentation of the significance and to overhyping scientific discoveries
What does integrity and honesty rely on
Importance of integrity and honesty — unbiased presentation of results citing and providing references and avoiding plagiarism
What does the replication of experiments by others reduce
The replication of experiments by others reduces the opportunity for dishonesty or the deliberate misuse of science.
In animal studies what concepts are used to minimise harm to animals
In animal studies, the concepts of replacement, reduction, and refinement are used to avoid, reduce or minimise the harm to animals
Replacement
Use alternatives to animal experimentation when an alternative cellular or model system exists
Reduction
Use the minimum number of animals in a study (without compromising the validity or reliability)
Refinement
Techniques should be adjusted to minimise negative impact of animals
Informed consent
Participants should be given details of the study and the opportunity to decline to take part
Right to withdraw
Participants should have the option to withdraw their consent to participate right up until publication of the data
Confidentiality
Any data gathered should be anonymous in order to protect the rights of participants
What should the value or quality of science investigations be
The value or quality of science investigations must be justifiable in terms of the benefits of its outcome, including the pursuit of scientific knowledge
What happens as a result of the risks involved with many areas os scientific research
As a result of the risks involved, many areas of scientific research are highly
regulated and licensed by governments.
What should happen to the risk and safety of subject species individuals and investigators and the environment
The risk to and safety of subject species, individuals, investigators and the
environment must be taken into account
What can influence scientific research
Legislation, regulation, policy and funding can all influence scientific research
What does legislation limit
Legislation limits the potential for the misuse of studies and data.
