The Scientific Method

Make observations
Write a hypothesis

A hypothesis is a short statement which proposes an explanation for an

observation
Each hypothesis should test only one idea
Includes both independent and dependent variables are included in the statement

Consider the variables, or factors, that may affect the outcome of an

experiment. Variables are any factor that can affect an experiment

--> Independent: The variable that is deliberately manipulated or change

--> Dependent: The variable or factor that is measured

--> Controlled: Those variables that are kept constant

--> Uncontrolled: Those variables that are not considered in the experimental
design. It is always best to control all variables, except the dependent and
independent variables, as much as possible.

Use two groups of subjects in the experiment

Control group: Subjects all have the same conditions as the other group, except for
the variable being tested.

-->The control group is the group to which nothing is done. The control allows you
to make a comparison with the experimental group. A control rules out the
possibility of factors other than the variable under investigation being responsible
for the changes observed.

Experimental group: This group tests the hypothesis. The subjects are given one
change in their conditions. It contains the independent variable. It tests the
hypothesis.
The Scientific Method

A large sample size increases the reliability of the outcome as it is an attempt

to even out individual variation that exists between subjects.
Specimens should be chosen randomly to eliminate any extraneous variables.
Should be repeated several times. Replication is needed to obtain a
statistically reliable average.
Experiments must run for a suitable time period.
Data may support hypotheses but generally they are not proven true.

Students should reflect on the results and the method, in particular:

--> Reliability - Refers to the extent which an experiment yields the same result on
repeated trails under the same conditions. To improve reliability increase sample
size.

--> Validity - Refers to the degree to which a method measures what it is

supposed to measure. It is increased by appropriate experimental design or
repeating the experiment.

--> Precision – is how close the values are to each other.

--> Accuracy – how close the values are to the true value.

There are three possible types of errors that may occur in an experiment:

Human error - is a mistake, such as, incorrectly reading a scale are not part of
experimental error. They should be avoided with sufficient care and checking.

Random error – these are unpredictable and occur in all experiments. Taking
several measurements and averaging them can reduce random error. Increasing
sample size also reduces random error.

Systematic error – due to the way the experiment was designed or faulty
equipment. The only way to reduce a systematic error is by changing the
experiment.