In this chapter, you will learn to: / describe how scientific ideas change over time / evaluate sources of information / outline the different ways of communicating science / understand the impact of science on society.
Scientific research
Scientists draw on a range of data sources to research the area they are investigating. Sources can be primary or secondary: • Primary data is collected by the scientist themselves, e.g. lab results, surveys and interviews.
• Secondary data has been collected by others before being used by the scientist, e.g. books, magazines, research papers and online sources.
:Fig. 2.1 Results recorded by scientists during their own investigation is primary data
? TEST TUBE
1. Classify the following sources of data as either primary or secondary: • scientific journals • science log books • interview notes • survey results
14 Elements of Science
• websites • emails between those working on an investigation • experimental investigation results • government publications
:Fig. 2.2 Information found online or in books is secondary data