The scientific method

In a nutshell

The scientific process is a process by which questions are asked, hypotheses are created and experiments are carried out to answer questions that scientists have.

The process

The scientific process involves asking questions, suggesting answers and testing. It can be summarised into the following steps:

Procedure

1.	Scientists make an observation and ask why/how this takes place.
2.	The next step is suggesting a possible explanation for why this happens using a theory or model.
3.	Scientists then make predictions or form a hypothesis based on the theory/model.
4.	Then, experiments are carried out to either support or refute the predictions/hypothesis.

Peer-review

Definition

Peer review is the process where other scientists in the same field review a report.

Results from these experiments are published in scientific journals. During the peer review process, other scientists review the method, data and results of an experiment to see if it follows a standard procedure and whether everything is logical and coherent. The process of peer-reviewing maintains a high scientific standard in journals. This process doesn't always mean the best work is published, but it is a good benchmark for ensuring quality.

Testing the results

Scientists may review the experiment through peer reviewing, however, the peer review process does not test the scientific accuracy of an experiment or the results. To assess this, other scientists will conduct the same investigation and produce their own predictions. If the other scientists produce the same results and further evidence, the theory will now be known as a scientific 'fact'. If other scientists fail to reproduce the same results, the theory will require more testing and it may fail.

A theory passing this process and becoming a 'fact' is not a permanent state. Development in the field may later disprove the theory, or challenge the theory. If this happens the process of evaluation by re-testing will start again and the theory will be measured against the new standards.

Variables in experiments

Results from controlled experiments, where variables can be measured and controlled with certainty, e.g. in a lab, produce strong results from which accurate conclusions can be drawn from. This is not always possible and some results will have uncontrolled variables. This is often the case for experiments carried out outside of the lab, as conditions cannot be controlled as easily.

Example

When observing subjects in nature such as wild animals or plants, this experiment would have variables that cannot be controlled.

Informing society

Results from experiments can inform and guide society. They can help governments make decisions about laws.

Example

If a study is published on pollution levels, the government can use it to propose laws which reinforce the reduction of pollution. If experiments are carried out on the impacts of unhealthy food on our bodies, laws can be made to change the culture of society and encourage people to make better food choices.