Experimentation

What does validity mean?

Variables controlled so that any measured effect is likely to be due to the independent variable

What does reliability mean?

Consistent values in repeats and independent replicates

What does accuracy mean?

Data, or means of data sets, are close to the true value

What does precision mean?

Measured values are close to each other

What is a pilot study used for?

Is used to help plan procedures, assess validity and check techniques and can also ensure an appropriate range of values for the independent variable

What does a pilot study allow?

It allows evaluation and modification of experimental design

What can a pilot study allow an investigator to establish?

The number of repeat measurements required to give a representative value for each independent datum point

What is an independent variable

The variable that is changed in a scientific experiment

What is an dependent variable

The variable being measured in a scientific experiment

Variables can be either?

Continuous or discrete