1. Scientific Method
Rabab Surani
UGS 303
April 12, 2010

2. What is it?
Scientific method is “a method of discovering knowledge about the natural world based in making falsifiable predictions (hypothesis), testing them empirically, and developing peer-reviewed theories that best explain the known data”.
Theory: an organized set of claims and statements that helps guide our research
Hypothesis: a specific, testable prediction
In class we discuss that the scientific method is unbiased, valid, testable, and reliable.
design controlled experiments, gather data, and develop and test hypotheses

3. Research Methods Naturalistic observation Survey methods Case studies
Observing behavior as it naturally occurs
Survey methods
Use of questionnaires and interviews
Case studies
Thorough investigation on a single participant
Experimental method
Involves manipulation of an independent variable

4. Steps in Scientific Investigation
Problem/ question
Observation/ research
Formulate a hypothesis
Collect the data
Analyze and examine the data
Design the study
(include detailed list of materials)
Communicate the results
Draw conclusions

5. Variables
Independent variable: manipulated or varied by the researcher
The dependent variable: variable affected by manipulation (under the control of the independent variable)
Control group: serves as the standard of comparison
may be a “no treatment" or an “experimenter selected” group
Confounding variable: variables other than the independent variable that the can influence the dependent variable

6. Source: file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/dell/Desktop/chapter2
Source: file:///C:/Documents%20and%20Settings/dell/Desktop/chapter2.ppt