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Chapter 1

Chapter 1. Introduction To The Scientific Method. Objectives. Develop an overall understanding of how the scientific process works. Be able to explain each part of the scientific method Be familiar with the relevant vocabulary. Science As A Process. Method of inquiry

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Chapter 1

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  1. Chapter 1 Introduction To The Scientific Method

  2. Objectives • Develop an overall understanding of how the scientific process works. • Be able to explain each part of the scientific method • Be familiar with the relevant vocabulary

  3. Science As A Process • Method of inquiry • Testable hypotheses are the hallmarks of the scientific process. • Process reaches definitive conclusion; doesn’t “Prove” anything 1 2 3 4 5 6 Publication

  4. Observation and Hypothesis • Scientific method starts with sensory observation and of what is already known about the subject • This “background knowledge” raised questions that can be phrased in a testable manner

  5. Hypothesis • Testable thought based on mental analysis of background information • “Educated guess” • Prediction is a often phrased as an if…then statement

  6. There may be more than one hypothesis • Although scientists can only test one hypothesis at a time, there may be other “alternative reasons” or alternative hypotheses to consider

  7. Test (Experiment) • Every hypothesis is subject to experimentation. • Well designed experiments factor out variables that may influence their outcome but are not what is being tested by using a control group

  8. Test design • Variable is a condition that is changeable and may influence experimental outcome • Control group is used to hold the variables constant

  9. Data are bits of new information resulting from the outcome of the experiment Analysis of the data reveals clues (patterns) that will enable evaluation of the hypothesis Statistical tests are often employed to evaluate whether the result is due to chance or truly significant. Data

  10. Correlation is a relationship between two variables such as between stress level and illness More difficult to assess as correlation does not signify causation Hypotheses may be tested using correlations

  11. Hypothesis to be tested?

  12. Or are we really testing one (or more) of the following:

  13. A scientist must conduct experiments with sufficient sample size or replicates to give strength to the statistical outcomes of the test Gives practical significance to the outcome Significance Of Findings Is Influenced By Sample Size

  14. Scientific findings must be published in reviewed literary (scientific) journals These journals are referred to as Primary Sources Publish or Perish

  15. EvaluationOf Sources

  16. Design your own experiment to the following: • Which model of vehicle is the best? • Does test time influence test outcome? • Is caffeine more affective on men or women? • Is eating at McDonalds healthier than eating at Subway?

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