Explain what is meant by replicability. Why is replicability an important feature
of science? (5 marks
Replicability is the ability to check and verify scientific information.
Candidates could explain replicability as:
• the ability to repeat the method to assess if similar findings are achieved
• the ability to achieve similar findings
Award 1 mark for a brief definition of replicability.
Tautological definitions e.g. merely stating that 'replicability is the ability to replicate'
should
not be awarded credit.
Replicability is an important part of the scientific process. Scientific method involves
defining
a problem and formulating a hypothesis which is tested with empirical research.
Research
findings are an important part of this process. If we wish to draw conclusions from
research
studies, the procedures and findings should be repeatable. Unrepeatable results
may imply
flaws or lack of control within the method used and is of limited use in theory
construction.
Award up to 4 marks for an explanation of why replicability is important. This is likely
to be
contextualised within a description of the scientific method
of science? (5 marks
Replicability is the ability to check and verify scientific information.
Candidates could explain replicability as:
• the ability to repeat the method to assess if similar findings are achieved
• the ability to achieve similar findings
Award 1 mark for a brief definition of replicability.
Tautological definitions e.g. merely stating that 'replicability is the ability to replicate'
should
not be awarded credit.
Replicability is an important part of the scientific process. Scientific method involves
defining
a problem and formulating a hypothesis which is tested with empirical research.
Research
findings are an important part of this process. If we wish to draw conclusions from
research
studies, the procedures and findings should be repeatable. Unrepeatable results
may imply
flaws or lack of control within the method used and is of limited use in theory
construction.
Award up to 4 marks for an explanation of why replicability is important. This is likely
to be
contextualised within a description of the scientific method