Research methods- Scientific processes, features of science Flashcards
What is empirical method?
Where info (data from) is gained through direct observation or experimentation/direct testing- rather than unfounded beliefs, assumptions or reasoned argument
What is replicability?
The ability to check & verify scientific info e.g. repeating method to assess if similar findings are achieved
What are 2 uses of replicability?
1) To draw conclusions procedure and findings must be repeatable
2) Identify flaws/lack of control in design/method if failure to repeat-limited use in theory construction
What is the difference between replicability and reliability?
Reliability= Measure consistency of measuring tool
Replicability= Validity test
What is objectivity?
Empirical data should be objective= Free from bias- not affected by researcher expectations
How do you achieve objectivity?
Systematically collected data & carefully controlled conditions achieve this
What is theory construction?
Use recorded facts to construct theories to understand & predict phenomena
When are the two times theory construction can occur and what are they called?
1) Beginning= Deduction
2) End= Induation
What do the 5 stages of research look like when theory construction is at the end (induation)?
1) Observation
2) Hypothesis
3) Conduct study
4) Conclusions
5) Theory construction
What do the 5 stages of research look like when theory construction is at the beginning (Deduction)?
1) Observations
2) Theory construction
3) Hypothesis
4) Conduct study
5) Conclusions
What is falsifiability?
Idea that a theory has only been scientifically scrutinised when attempts have been made to prove it’s false- Must be possible to make a falsifiable hypothesis
What is hypothesis testing?
A good theory must generate testable hypothesis, failure to find support for a hypothesis means the theory needs modification (Done via process of hypothesis testing)
What is a paradigm?
A general theory or law accepted by majority of scientists in that particular field by study
A shared set of assumptions about the subject matter of a discipline & methods appropriate to the study
What is a paradigm shift?
Over time evidence accumulates that suggests current paradigm is less adequate than it was & eventually the current paradigm is replaced with a new one
