The Nature Of Scientific Knowledge (Leaving Cert Biology): Flashcards

Organised study of the natural world that builds knowledge

Evidence-based knowledge (supported by observations & experiments)

Systematic approach to investigate natural world & build reliable knowledge

Noticing something interesting in natural world

Educated explanation testable through experiment

Scientific test under controlled conditions

Analyse results to accept, reject, or modify hypothesis

Primary: you collect; Secondary: others collected

Experts evaluate research quality before publication

Others get same results using same procedures

Hypothesis supported by many experiments over time

Theory tested & valid long-term; highest certainty

Hypothesis → theory → principle

Unfair, unreasoned, or personal judgements in research

Evolves as new evidence emerges