The Criteria of Science and Research Scenarios

The Criteria of Science and Research Scenarios

Introduction: The field of science is driven by inquiry and evidence-based research. In order to conduct valid scientific investigations, certain criteria must be followed. This essay will first discuss the three criteria that help to define science. It will then analyze two research scenarios, identifying the independent and dependent variables, the research method used, and potential confounding variables.

1. The Three Criteria that Define Science

Empirical Evidence: Science relies on empirical evidence obtained through observation, experimentation, and measurement. It emphasizes the importance of collecting data objectively and systematically.
Testability: Scientific claims must be testable through controlled experiments or observations. This means that they can be proven or disproven based on evidence.
Falsifiability: Scientific hypotheses and theories must be falsifiable, meaning that they can potentially be proven false. This allows for the continuous evaluation and refinement of scientific knowledge.
2. Sections of a Journal Article The five main sections of a journal article are:

Abstract: Provides a concise summary of the study, including the research question, methods, results, and conclusions.
Introduction: Presents the background information, research question, and objectives of the study.
Methods: Describes in detail the procedures, materials, and techniques used to conduct the study.
Results: Presents the findings of the study, often through tables, figures, and statistical analyses.
Discussion: Interprets the results, discusses their implications, and compares them with previous research.
If skimming an article, one would typically go to the “Abstract” section. It provides a brief overview of the study’s main points, allowing readers to quickly grasp the purpose and findings of the research without delving into the specifics.

3. Hypothesis Testing and Disproof In the given problem about cards with numbers and letters, the hypothesis presented is “If a card has a vowel on one side, then it has an even number on the other side.” To test this hypothesis, one would need to turn over the cards that are essential for verification:

A: Since it has a letter side showing, turning it over would reveal whether it has a vowel or not.
7: This card needs to be turned over to check if it has an even number on the other side.
This scenario relates to hypothesis testing as it involves formulating a hypothesis (the rule about vowels and even numbers) and conducting an experiment (turning over the cards) to gather evidence supporting or contradicting the hypothesis. If any of the turned-over cards do not align with the hypothesis (e.g., if card A does not have a vowel), it would serve as a disproof that refutes the rule proposed.

4. Research Scenario I In Scenario I, which investigates the effects of nicotine on concentration, the following questions will be addressed:

The independent variable in this study is nicotine consumption (smoking).
The dependent variable in this study is concentration levels.
The independent variable is manipulated since participants are divided into two groups based on their smoking habits.
The research method used in this study is experimental since participants are assigned to different conditions (smokers vs. non-smokers) to assess the impact of nicotine on concentration.
A potential confounding variable in this scenario could be caffeine consumption, as it may also affect concentration levels. To justify this, it is important to consider that caffeine intake is often associated with smoking habits and could influence concentration independently.
5. Research Scenario II In Scenario II, which compares learning conditions on knowledge acquisition, we will address the following questions:

The independent variable in this study is learning condition (collaborative group learning vs. traditional lecture/discussion method).
The dependent variable in this study is knowledge acquisition.
The independent variable is manipulated since participants are randomly assigned to different learning conditions.
The research method used in this study is experimental since participants are randomly assigned to different learning conditions to evaluate their impact on knowledge acquisition.
A potential confounding variable in this scenario could be prior knowledge or experience related to the topic being studied. This variable may differ among participants and could influence knowledge acquisition independently.

Conclusion: Science adheres to specific criteria such as empirical evidence, testability, and falsifiability. These criteria ensure that scientific investigations are grounded in evidence and can be objectively evaluated. In research scenarios, identifying independent and dependent variables, selecting appropriate research methods, and considering potential confounding variables are crucial for conducting rigorous studies that contribute to scientific knowledge.