Lab 1: The Scientific Method and Scientific Literature

A set of vocabulary flashcards designed to help students understand key concepts related to the scientific method and scientific literature.

Scientific Method

A systematic procedure followed by scientists to conduct research and experiments.

Observations

The first step in the scientific method, involving precise scrutiny of the natural world.

Hypothesis

A proposed explanation or educated guess based on observations that can be tested.

Independent Variable

The variable that is manipulated or changed by the researcher in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is measured or observed in response to changes in the independent variable.

Control Variables

Factors in an experiment that are kept constant to ensure that the results are due to the independent variable.

Plagiarism

The act of using someone else's work, ideas, or expressions without proper attribution.

Peer-Reviewed

A process where other experts in the field evaluate a study before it is published.

Null Hypothesis (H0)

The hypothesis that states there is no effect or difference; it is tested against the alternative hypothesis.

Alternative Hypothesis (HA)

The hypothesis that states there is an effect or difference; it is what researchers typically hope to support.

Scientific Paper

A written document that reports on original research, including methods, results, and conclusions.

Academic Integrity

The ethical code of academia that involves honest and responsible use of scholarly work.