Quantitative data, dependent, variable data, qualitative data, independent variable, constant control, hypothesis, theory, observation experiment
Quantitative data refers to information that can be measured and expressed in numerical form, such as height, weight, or test scores.
Dependent variable data, also known as the response variable, is the outcome or result being measured or observed in an experiment.
Qualitative data, on the other hand, is non-numerical or categorical information that describes qualities or characteristics, such as color or taste.
An independent variable is the variable that is manipulated or controlled by the experimenter in order to observe its effect on the dependent variable.
Constant control refers to keeping all variables other than the independent variable constant or unchanged in an experiment, in order to isolate the effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable.
A hypothesis is a testable explanation or prediction based on observations, previous research, or theoretical reasoning. It is formulated before conducting an experiment and is used to guide the research process.
A theory, in the scientific context, is a well-substantiated explanation that has been repeatedly tested and supported by a large body of evidence. It goes beyond a hypothesis and provides a broader understanding of a phenomenon.
Observation refers to the act of gathering data or information through direct visual or sensory experience. An experiment is a structured and controlled procedure designed to test a hypothesis by manipulating variables and observing their effects.
Quantitative data: Quantitative data refers to information that is measured using numerical values or can be expressed in terms of quantities. Examples of quantitative data include the height of a person, the temperature of a room, or the number of cars in a parking lot.
Dependent variable: The dependent variable is the factor that is being measured or observed in an experiment. It is the variable that may change as a result of manipulating the independent variable. For example, in a study investigating the effect of a new drug on blood pressure, the dependent variable would be the blood pressure readings.
Qualitative data: Qualitative data refers to information that is descriptive in nature and cannot be measured or expressed in numerical terms. It involves characteristics or qualities that are observed or reported. Examples of qualitative data include observations of behavior, interviews, or survey responses.
Independent variable: The independent variable is the factor that is manipulated or controlled by the researcher in an experiment. It is the variable that is hypothesized to have an effect on the dependent variable. In the drug and blood pressure study example, the independent variable would be the administration of the drug.
Constant control: A constant control refers to keeping certain factors constant or unchanged throughout an experiment. This helps to ensure that any observed effects are due to the independent variable and not to other factors. For example, in a plant growth experiment, the temperature, light intensity, and water supply could be constant controls.
Hypothesis: A hypothesis is a proposed explanation or prediction for a phenomenon or problem, based on available evidence or previous observations. It is usually formulated as a statement that can be tested through experimentation or observation. A hypothesis helps guide research and provides a focus for investigating the relationship between variables.
Theory: A theory is a well-supported and widely accepted explanation of phenomena or observed facts. It is based on a large body of empirical evidence and can explain a broad range of related observations. Theories are more comprehensive than hypotheses and are often used to explain natural phenomena or make predictions.
Observation: An observation is the act of gathering information or data by using the senses or instruments. Observations can be qualitative or quantitative and provide the basis for forming hypotheses, conducting experiments, or making conclusions.
Experiment: An experiment is a controlled and systematic procedure that is carried out to test a hypothesis or investigate cause-and-effect relationships. It involves manipulating one or more variables (independent variables) and observing the resulting changes in another variable (dependent variable). Experiments are designed to provide objective and reliable evidence to support or refute hypotheses.