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There are many ways to analyze data, but we will be doing rather simple experiments in this class that will usually only require observing visual changes and taking measurements. Measurements generally do not need to be exact, but precision always helps ensure more accurate results.
Although a perfectly controlled experiment is the ideal, many times experiments are subject to other challenges. A study design may sound great on paper, but sometimes experiments do not go according to plan. A study design may be flawed, the scientist could make mistakes during the experiment or other, unforseen variables may influence the outcome of the experiment.
For this reason, it is very important for the experiment to be repeated several times. Each experiment provides a valuable learning experience and an opportunity to refine the study design so that the scientist can perform the most effective experiment for the study.
Repetition of the study also helps provide consistent, reliable data, and it gives the scientist the confidence that she can accurately evaluate her hypothesis, and others could replicate her experiment and produce similar results. When an experiment is completed and the results of each test recorded, it is time to evaluate the hypotheses in terms of what actually happened during the experiment.
If the hypothesis is able to be supported, the pattern shown in the data must match up with the initial hypothesis statement. If that does not occur, the hypothesis must be rejected.
Please note that rejecting a hypothesis or obtaining unexpected results is NOT intended to be any indication of failure on the part of the scientist. Many times, data obtained from an experiment will raise more questions and lead to further experiments and starts the process of scientific inquiry over again. “Unsuccessful” experiments have a valuable place in the world of science because they promote further exploration into the world’s mysteries, and sometimes they prompt unusual discoveries in the process.
Assignment:
Watch the video clip below.
Answer the following questions:
- State 3 hypotheses that are generated before the experiment.
- State 5 changes or modifications that the three hosts made to their cars
- What unexpected variables do the trio encounter?
- In the end, are the hypotheses that you listed supported or rejected?
Video: Amphibious Cars
A little background on this clip..
This is a clip from a British car show called Top Gear. The three hosts are challenged to build and test their own amphibious cars, with various results. In a previous show, they had all built amphibious cars that exhibited various problems, so they applied the results of their previous experiment to modify their cars appropriately.
If you can’t watch it on this page, click the link here to go to the YouTube page.
