Introduction
The scientific method is a process of finding out why and how things occur based on quantifiable evidence. Dependence on facts distinguishes the scientific method from other inquest methods (Ritchie, 2001, p.6). The scientific method uses hypotheses to elucidate and create tests for experiments through the forecast. Scientific methods aim at showing the practicability of science and eliminating biases and problems in showing the truth (Ritchie, 2001, p.13). In general, the scientific method involves making observations, carrying out research, hypothesizing, making predictions, testing, and drawing conclusions (Ritchie, 2001, p.27). However, all of these steps may not necessarily be taken in every other scientific experiment.
Solving problems using the scientific method
Solving problems using the scientific method involves stating the problem and making observations first. The test to be carried out is then explained and a literature review developed (Gauch, 2002, p.10). Using the observations, a hypothesis that should give factors to be tested is developed. The hypothesis of the experiment ought to be straightforward and understandable. An experiment is then designed with resolute steps to verify the hypothesis. It is imperative to ensure that all the necessary materials for the experiment are scheduled. The control group and the experiment group for the test are then identified (Gauch, 2002, p.16). The control group should be the experiment’s reference point and its variables should remain unchanged.
Once the experiment setup is complete, a series of tests are carried out. The test can be conducted as many times as possible while recording measurements. For verification purposes, it is important to change at least one variable in every test with other groups. After carrying out all tests and recording accurate data successfully, conclusions can be drawn. In the conclusion, results regarding your observations and the hypothesis should be stated. Also stating what needs further research and possible recommendations are key components of the conclusion (Gauch, 2002, p.21). However, in problem-solving using the scientific method, ignoring information that does not compliment the outcome or taking the hypothesis for the answer without testing should be avoided (Gauch, 2002, p.29).
The experiment
Concerning a report published on Science Daily on June 10, 2010, the hypothesis of the experiment can be said to be: the role of caffeine in reducing the risk of diabetes. The question the researchers were trying to answer with this experiment was whether caffeine, a component found in coffee, can help reduce the risk of diabetes.
This experiment had both a control group and a treatment group. The control group for this experiment was human beings (Science Daily, 2010, par.2). In this experiment, humans are not exposed to any conditions of the experiment. Humans are separated from exposure to the experiment and they can not influence the results on the condition being tested. The treatment group for this experiment was mice. The treatment group can also be referred to as the experimental group. The mice were exposed to all the conditions of the experiment for the variable being tested (Science Daily, 2010, par.2). For validation of the hypothesis, the observations on the treatment group were recorded.
The researchers in this experiment followed the scientific method in their experimental design. This experiment involved making observations, developing a hypothesis, research, and testing. All these are key steps in the scientific method experimental designs. This experiment may not have any bias, though it may have a few problems. Some of the possible problems with this experiment could be ignoring data that does not compliment the result and taking the hypothesis for an answer.
Conclusion
The hypothesis was supported as evident from the data collected in the experiment. The data indicated the effects of caffeine on blood sugar levels and insulin sensitivity, all of which are related to diabetes (Science Daily, 2010, par.3). Drinking coffee can reduce the risk of diabetes in humans. This should be recommended for the millions of American population that are at risk of type 2 diabetes.
References
Gauch, H. (2002). Scientific Method in Practice. London: Cambridge University Press.
Ritchie, A. (2001). Scientific Method. London: Routledge.
Science Daily: New Evidence that Drinking Coffee May Reduce the Risk of Diabetes. (2010). Web.