KA3.2a - Pilot Study

Question 1

Define ‘accuracy’

Answer 1

data, or means of data sets, are close to the true value.

Question 2

Define ‘reliability’

Answer 2

consistent values in repeats and independent replicates.

e.g. you’re repeats values are close to one another: 9.6, 9.7, 9.6

Question 3

Define ‘validity’

Answer 3

variables controlled so that any measured effect is likely to be due to the independent variable

Question 4

Define ‘precision’

Answer 4

measured values are close to each other

Question 5

Explain what ARVP means?

Answer 5

• Accuracy
• Reliability
• Validity
• Precision

Question 6

Define ‘pilot study’

Answer 6

is used to help plan procedures, assess validity and check techniques

e.g. trialling different concentrations to determine the best one

Question 7

What is a pilot study used for?

Answer 7

• Ensure an appropriate range of values for the independent variable
• Establish the number of repeat measurements required to give a representative value for each independent datum point.

Also:
* Be used to check whether results can be produced in a suitable time frame.
* Be used to identify and control confounding variables.