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Linzey - Vertebrate Biology - Chapter 14

C H A P T E R 1 4 Techniques for Ecological and Behavioral Studies Discovery and problem solving in all fields of science employ techniques of gathering, coordinating, organizing, and evaluating information as it relates to a specific subject. | Linzey Vertebrate Biology 14. Techniques for Ecological and Behavioral Studies Text The McGraw-Hill Companies 2003 CHAPTER 14 Techniques for Ecological and Behavioral Studies INTRODUCTION Discovery and problem solving in all fields of science employ techniques of gathering coordinating organizing and evaluating information as it relates to a specific subject. In a scientific approach to any problem the researcher must first ask a question or identify a problem based on observations of objects or events. Then a hypothesis or potential answer to the question being asked is proposed and the investigator predicts what the consequences might be if the hypothesis is valid. The investigator then devises ways to test the hypothesis by making observations developing models or performing experiments. Hypotheses must be testable those that are not testable are inadmissible in science. Observations and or tests should be repeated as often as necessary to determine whether results will be consistent and as predicted. Hypotheses that are found upon testing to be contradicted by the evidence must be modified or abandoned. The investigator must then report objectively on the results and on conclusions drawn from them presenting both the data and the investigator s intepretation of the information as it relates to the hypothesis. This mode of action is known as the scientific method. Critical evaluation ofthe techniques or methodology used in any scientific investigation is extremely important. Thus scientists constantly must be concerned with the selection and application of the best techniques for use in each of these steps. A deficiency in any of these steps will hinder the interpretation of the results. Limitations inherent in field and laboratory investigations of animal populations make it even more critical that researchers choose most carefully the techniques to be used. The mobility secretiveness and constant fluctuation in numbers of practically all wild animals make .