Designing a Research Project

Define the Problem A creative process – –“Why are coral reefs dying?” is too large a problem to be solved in HS. – –“What is the effect of high water temperatures on the growth of corals?” could be studied in a classroom saltwater tank.

Define Organisms or Factors What is the organism or concept to be studied? – – (corals) Define the Independent Variable(s) – – (Heat, at specific ranges) Define the Dependent Variables – – (growth of coral colonies)

Create a Hypothesis Must be testable – Does it show Cause & Effect? If__________... then________... ( IF high water temperatures effect the growth of corals, THEN the corals will show little change in colony size over time.) – It is objective? – Is it CLEAR?

Design the Study USE A CONTROL GROUP –or comparative sets of data –For behavioral studies, compare with known behavior in the wild X X 2 X X , , , , , , , , , ,500  X = 3,185  X 2 = 1,016,797

Design the Study Which variable will you test? Test only ONE variable at a time Treat animals with respect - use inverts whenever possible

Design the Study Determine the Experimental Constants –Variables NOT altered during the experiment Write the Procedure –Number the steps –Make them clear & repeatable Use diagrams or a flow chart

Design the Study Include AT LEAST 10 trials or organisms per experimental group Decide how to control variables

Select a Method of Data Collection

Take samples randomly Make sure there is a way to quantify the data

Write a Proposal State the primary objectives Include a rationale and justification List references you have found in a preliminary literature search If using vertebrates, justify their use and explain the humane manner in which they will be treated.

State the general procedures you plan to follow – Include the length of time the study will run List any materials/equipment Estimate any costs Write a Proposal

Indicate where the study will take place – Will any special facilities will be necessary? – Have you received permission? – How are you getting there? State what results you expect to get Write a Proposal

A diary, detailing all activities – Kept in ink, with no erasures or other obliterations – Cross out errors with a single line Collect Data in a Log Book

First page: your name, address, phone number, and the name of your advisor – Problem statement and a brief summary All other entries start with the date and location of the activity. You should record all of the following activities: Conference with advisor Telephone calls Library research Thought about your project Descriptions of any setup and changes in design Data taken while performing the study Collect Data in a Log Book

Collect Samples Collect living specimens with care Don’t contaminate samples Avoid errors

Observe & Measure Samples Measure consistently Keep notes in a log book Record errors

If there is time… — Improve on the design — Re-test Refine and Retest