Features of science Flashcards
What is a paradigm shift?
When there is a scientific change in the way researchers think
What is replicability?
Refers to a piece of research which could be carried out again by another researcher to show consistency
How can a study be replicable?
If the research has variables which are controlled and the procedure is precise
What is falsifiability?
The ability of a study or theory to be found to be wrong
What does an experiment which withstands falsifiability show?
That the results are significant
What is objectivity?
Means that a piece of research has not been affected by subjectivity (eg, researcher bias)
What is the empirical method?
Involves using objective methods to collect data in ways which are controlled by the researcher
What is a theory?
A set of principles that intend to explain certain behaviours or events
How Can a theory be constructed?
Using evidence gathered via research to support its general assumptions as theories require empirical evidence
What are two examples of theories in psychology?
Multi-store model of memory
Theory of localisation of brain function
What is an abstract?
A summary of the research giving aims, method and outcome
What does an introduction of a scientific report include?
-Why the research was conducted
-Aims
-Hypothesis
What 6 things will be in the method section of a scientific report?
-Design of the research
-Participants
-Materials
-Procedure
-Controls
-Ethics
What three things does the discussion part of a scientific journal include?
-Explanation of findings
-Limitations
-Relationship of results to previous research
Why is refrencing used in a scientific journal?
-To avoid plagiarism
-To credit those who are referenced
