. Why is replicability an important feature of science ?

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