Understanding the Scientific Process

For University of Dayton BIO151 Lab

Science

Study of facts and truths systematically arranged.

Four C's of Scientists

Curious

Scientific Process

Method for systematic investigation based on empirical evidence.

Misconception 1

The scientific process is linear.

Misconception 2

Science proves ideas to be correct.

Observation

Initial step to create testable variables for questions.

Hypothesis

Proposed explanation based on observations and variables.

Alternate Hypothesis

If/then statement predicting a change in outcome.

Null Hypothesis

States no change will occur in outcome.

Experimental Design

Plan considering variables

Independent Variable

Condition varied by the investigator in an experiment.

Dependent Variable

Measured outcome affected by the independent variable.

Constant Variable

Parts of the experiment that remain unchanged.

Experimental Treatment

Group subjected to changes in the independent variable.

Control Treatment

Group not subjected to changes in the independent variable.

Replication

Ability to repeat experiments to verify accuracy.

Data Collection

Recording all parts of experiments in lab notebooks.

Data Analysis

Organizing raw data into tables or graphs.

Conclusion

Determining correctness of hypotheses based on analyzed data.

Repeat Process

Conducting experiments again to ensure reliability.

Step 1

Make observations to identify testable variables.

Step 2

Formulate hypotheses based on observations.

Step 3

Design experiments considering all relevant variables.

Step 4

Collect and organize data systematically.

Step 5

Analyze data for clarity and presentation.

Step 6

Draw conclusions from analyzed data.

Step 7

Repeat experiments for validation and error checking.