Various scientific techniques are utilized to explore different phenomena, each with its specific strengths and limitations. Correlation studies reveal relationships between variables without proving causation, providing a basis for prediction.
Examples in Biology: Huntingtons disease in Venzuela, case study determined how disease is transmitted from one generation to the next.
Limitations: Conclusions about cause and effect relationships cannot be drawn. Individualistic approach, important details left out due to problems with memory
Strengths: Useful with detailed contextual view of a phenomenon. Helps to understand social factors.
Description: In depth descriptive record in correcting and examining observed behavior
Experimental
Examples in Biology: New cells grow in bird's location of memory in brain, every fall season
Limitations: Only used in practical and ethical conditions
Strengths: Understanding cause and effect in nature
Description: Independent and dependent variables necessary
Survery
Examples in Biology: Survey questioned bird specialists about results of experimetn on prefered bird seed to come to an ultimate conclusion (all experiments were exactly replicated)
Limitations: Relies on self report and subjectivity, can also be perversed for poor reasons
Strengths: Collect opinions, attitudes, and data of a selected group
Description: Data collection via interviews and questionairres
Naturalistic Observation
Examples in Biology: Eagles are discovered to be capable of hunting in packs based upon the behavior observed
Limitations: non-explanatory method, observation difficulty and recording results
Strengths: Observe behavior, study nature, validate theoretical concepts
Description: Non=experimental approach to record a phenomenon or behavior based upon observation of the senses
Correlation
Examples in Biology: As the number of prey increases, so does the number of predators
Limitations: Can not prove causation
Strengths: Shows relationships between 2 variables. Basis for prediction
