HSC Investigating Science key terms

A testable prediction about the relationship between variables, stated before data collection, which can be supported or rejected by evidence gathered during an investigation.

Any factor in an investigation that can change or take different values, including the independent variable manipulated by the investigator and the dependent variable measured as an outcome.

A factor kept constant across all trials or conditions so that it cannot influence the dependent variable, helping ensure observed effects are due to the independent variable alone.

The extent to which repeated measurements or trials produce consistent results under the same conditions, often improved by increasing sample size or repeating procedures.

The extent to which an investigation actually measures what it claims to measure and that conclusions follow logically from the data collected, without confounding influences.

An investigation design in which only the independent variable is changed, all other relevant factors are held constant, and the dependent variable is measured consistently.

The number of individual observations or trials included in an investigation; larger samples generally reduce the influence of chance variation and improve reliability.

A comparison group that does not receive the experimental treatment, used to establish a baseline against which the effects of the independent variable can be judged.

Observations recorded as descriptions, categories, or characteristics rather than numbers, such as colour changes or behaviour patterns, often analysed by identifying themes.

Measurements or counts expressed as numerical values, which can be analysed statistically to reveal patterns, averages, and relationships between variables.

Information gathered through the senses or instruments during an investigation, forming the raw evidence from which inferences and conclusions are drawn.

A logical interpretation or explanation drawn from observations and prior knowledge, going beyond what was directly seen or measured to suggest underlying causes.

A judgement about whether the hypothesis was supported, based on analysis of the evidence, and stating the extent to which findings can be generalised.

The process of organising, summarising, and interpreting data using tables, graphs, and statistics to identify patterns and evaluate the hypothesis.

The difference between a measured value and its true value, arising from instrument limitations, observer technique, or environmental fluctuations, which affects the precision of results.

The application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to create tools, systems, and processes that serve practical purposes in society.

The development and implementation of a new or significantly improved product, process, or method that creates value or solves a problem.

Progress in the capability, efficiency, or sophistication of tools and systems, often driven by scientific discoveries and engineering improvements over time.

A device designed to extend human senses or improve measurement precision, such as a microscope or spectrometer, enabling observations not possible with the unaided senses.

A legal right granted by a government that gives an inventor exclusive control over the use and commercialisation of an invention for a limited period.

Creations of the mind, such as inventions, designs, and discoveries, that are protected by law through mechanisms including patents, copyright, and trademarks.

A statement that can be verified by observation or measurement and is accepted as true based on available evidence at a given time.

A mistaken belief or a flaw in reasoning that makes an argument invalid, often arising from irrelevant information, emotion, or faulty logic rather than evidence.

An error in the structure of an argument that renders it invalid, such as attacking the person rather than the argument or appealing to popularity instead of evidence.

A claim or practice presented as scientific but lacking empirical evidence, testability, and openness to refutation, often relying on anecdote and authority.

Information or data that supports or refutes a claim, gathered through systematic observation, measurement, or experimentation and subject to critical evaluation.

A process in which independent experts evaluate the quality and validity of research before publication, helping to filter unreliable or flawed scientific claims.

Information based on personal accounts or isolated examples rather than systematic study, which is unreliable for drawing general conclusions because it may be biased or unrepresentative.

A systematic tendency that distorts the collection, analysis, or interpretation of data, leading to results that consistently deviate from the truth in a particular direction.

The two-way relationship in which scientific research shapes social values, policies, and technologies, while societal needs and priorities influence the direction of scientific inquiry.

Moral principles that guide the conduct of scientific research, including honesty, integrity, respect for participants, and avoidance of harm to humans and the environment.

The process of obtaining voluntary agreement from research participants after they have been fully informed about the purpose, procedures, risks, and benefits of a study.

Decisions and actions taken by governments to address issues, which are often informed by scientific evidence but also shaped by economic, political, and social considerations.

The practice of sharing scientific information with non-specialist audiences in accessible and accurate ways, aiming to inform public understanding and decision-making.

The systematic evaluation of potential hazards and their likelihood and consequences, used to inform decisions about safety and regulation in science and technology.

Meeting present needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own, often applied to the responsible use of resources and technological development.

The ability to understand, evaluate, and apply scientific concepts and processes to make informed decisions and engage critically with science-related issues in everyday life.