Features of science

• Empirical is a method of gaining knowledge which relies on direct observation or testing, not hearsay or rational argument
• scientific knowledge is based on 5 features

  1. empirical method
  2. objectivity
  3. applicability
  4. theory construction
  5. hypothesis testing
• Objective- Data should not be affected by the expectations of the researcher. Data collection should be systematic and free from bias
• Controlled- All extraneous variables need to be controlled in order to be able to establish cause (IV) and effect (DV)
• Replication- scientists record their methods and standardise them carefully so that the same procedures can be followed in the future (replicated). Repeating a study is the most important way to demonstrate the validity of an observation or experiment. If the outcome is the same, then this indicates that the original findings are valid.