Unit 3 - Scientific Principles and Process Flashcards
What is the Scientific Cycle?
Observation; Construction of Hypothesis; Experimental Design; Gathering, Recording, Analysis of Data; Evaluation of Results; Conclusion; Formation of Revised Hypothesis
What is a negative result?
Investigation that fails to find an effect.
What is the Null Hypothesis?
Proposes that there will be no statistically significant effect as a result of the experiment treatment.
When is the Null Hypothesis rejected?
If there is evidence for an effect
In order to be valid, results must be…
Reproducable
When do scientific ideas become accepted?
Once they have been checked independently
What must be published in scientific reports so that experiments can be repeated?
Methods, Data, Analysis, and Conclusions
Methods of sharing original scientific findings
Seminars, Talks, Posters at conferences, Publishing in academic journals
Published data should be…
Peer reviewed and critically evaluated by specialists with expertise in the relevant field
What does peer reviewing ensure?
Scientifically correct information is being shared.
What is the purpose of review articles?
Summarise current knowledge and recent findings in a particular field
What are the pros and cons of science in media?
Pro: Public has developed a greater understanding of science
Con: Often it is misrepresented
How to prevent misrepresentation of science in media?
Coverage must be critically evaluated
What are key importances in science?
Integrity and honesty
What does integrity and honesty in science rely on?
Reporting of unbiased presentation of results, citing, and providing references, avoiding plagiarism
What reduces the opportunity for dishonesty or deliberate misuse of science?
Replication of experiments by others
What are the 3 R’s
Replacement, Reduction, Refinement
What is the purpose of the 3 R’s
To avoid, reduce or minimise the harm to animals
What is replacement? (Animal terms)
Replacing the animal with an alternative, such as tissue culture
What is reduction? (Animal terms)
Using minimum number of animals in order to obtain robust results
What is refinement? (Animal terms)
Using methods that minimise potential pain, suffering or distress on animal
Concepts in human trials to ensure human rights are adhered to
Informed consent, the right to withdraw, confidentiality
What should be taken into account when doing scientific research on living organisms?
The risk to and safety of subject species, individuals, investigators, and the environment
What can influence scientific research?
Legislation, regulation, policy and funding
What does legislation limit?
The potential for the misuse of studies and data
