scientific method

Scientific Method

A systematic process used in scientific research involving observation, question formulation, hypothesis development, experimental testing, analysis, and reporting conclusions.

Hypothesis

A testable prediction that addresses a scientific question, usually formulated as a null hypothesis (no significant difference) and an alternative hypothesis (a difference between groups).

Deductive Reasoning

Reasoning that uses a general principle to predict specific results.

Inductive Reasoning

Reasoning that formulates generalizations based on specific observations.

Observation

Information gathered through the senses about the surrounding environment.

Null Hypothesis

A hypothesis stating there is no significant difference between specified groups.

Alternative Hypothesis

A research hypothesis that proposes a difference between specified groups.

Quantitative Data

Numerical data obtained from counting or measuring.

Qualitative Data

Data described by words or letters, resulting from categorizing attributes.

Variable

A factor in an experiment that can be changed or manipulated.

Independent Variable

The variable that causes a change in another variable in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

The variable that is affected in an experiment.

Experimental Group

The group in an experiment that receives the treatment being studied.

Control Group

The group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment and is used as a benchmark for comparison.