3.1 - Scientific principles and process

What is the scientific cycle?

observation
construction of a testable hypothesis
experimental design
gathering, recording, and analysis of data
evaluation of results and conclusions
the formation of a revised hypothesis where necessary

What is a null hypothesis?

there will be no statistically significant effect as a result of the experiment treatment

negative result

a negative result is a valid finding, as long as an experiment is well designed.

Conflicting data or conclusions can be resolved through careful evaluation or can lead to further experimentation.

When is the null hypothesis rejected?

if there is evidence for an effect, unlikely due to chance

When are scientific ideas accepted?

Only once they have been checked independently

Effects must be reproducible; one-off results are treated with caution.

positive control

control group with treatment that is known to produce results

negative control

Control group where treatment is used that isnt expected to produce results.

Negative control groups help identify outside influences which may be present that were not accounted for when the procedure was created.

what is the importance of publication of methods, data, analysis, and conclusions in scientific reports?

so others are able to repeat an experiment

what are common methods of sharing original scientific findings?

seminars, talks and posters at conferences, and publishing in academic journals

what is the importance of peer review and critical evaluation?

Specialists with expertise in the relevant field assess the scientific quality of a submitted manuscript and make recommendations regarding its suitability for publication.

What is a review article?

Review articles summarise current knowledge and recent findings in a particular field.
they are useful to gain an overview of a field.

scientific ethics

While judgements and interpretations of scientific evidence may be disputed, integrity and honesty are of key importance in science.
The replication of experiments by others reduces the opportunity for dishonesty or the deliberate misuse of science.

Ethics in animal studies

replacement - avoid using animals when alternative cellular or model systems exist

reduction - reduce the number of animals used in a study without compromising validity or reliability

refinement - techniques should be adjusted to minimise harm to animals

informed consent

an ethical principle that research participants be told enough to enable them to choose whether they wish to participate

the right to withdraw

A participant's right to leave a study at any time and their ability to do so.

Confidentiality

Respecting the privacy of both parties and keeping details secret

e justification for scientific research and the assessment of any risks

The value or quality of science investigations must be justifiable in terms of the benefits of its outcome, including the pursuit of scientific knowledge.

As a result of the risks involved, many areas of scientific research are highly regulated and licensed by governments

Legislation, regulation, policy and funding can all influence scientific research

Legislation limits the potential for the misuse of studies and data.