Lecture notes on scientific method

Flashcards about scientific method

What are the steps of the Scientific Method?

1. Observations 2. Hypothesis 3. Predictions 4. Test 5. Analysis of Results

What actions should you take while making observations?

Record your own observations and ask an answerable question.

What is a Null Hypothesis?

There is no preference for one environmental condition over another. Woodbugs will show no preference regardless of the conditions.

What is an Alternate Hypothesis?

There is a preference for one condition over another that may explain the results.

What format should I use to make a prediction?

Use "If x, then y" format.

What does a Control Test ensure?

Ensures no unknown variables or contamination are affecting results.

What does an Experimental Test do?

Evaluates if a chosen variable significantly affects woodbug behavior. Only one variable should be tested at a time.

Why should the number of woodbugs tested increased?

Increases the validity of your data

What does replication of experiments ensure?

Experiments should be repeated at least twice to ensure reliability.

What is Statistics?

The science of collecting, organizing, and interpreting numerical data. Helps determine if results are due to chance.

What is a Chi-Squared Test?

Statistical test that tells us if we can reject the null hypothesis.

How is the Chi-Squared value calculated?

Expected = total of all outcomes ÷ number of categories. Use 'Sum' to add values and calculate the chi-squared value.

What is a Critical Value?

A predetermined value used to decide if the null hypothesis can be rejected.

How do you calculate Degrees of Freedom (df) and what is the significance of the p-value?

Degrees of Freedom (df) = number of conditions - 1. Results are considered meaningful when p <= 0.05.