This guide will help you prepare effectively for your practical assessments, covering key areas and tips for success.
Experimental Skills and Techniques #
You are expected to be provided with the required equipment for every practical session, and it is important that you understand both the reason for using such equipment as well as the correct modes of use. If there is any doubt about their use, it is a good idea to perform an internet search for applicable keywords and terms before the practical to gain the necessary understanding.
Adhering to all safety procedures is of utmost importance; it is essential that you comply with the provided instructions as well as any directives or recommendations issued by your instructor or outlined in safety documentation and cautionary labels. This is particularly critical when managing living specimens, chemicals, or electrical apparatus.
Wherever possible, either conduct the experiments in physical or virtual format through interactive websites which simulate results and show the experiments clearly visually for revision.
Analysis and Data Interpretation #
Record observations and measurements obtained from your experimental work carefully. Attention to detail and being precise during the data acquisition phase is necessary to guarantee the validity of your results. Don’t be afraid to closely analyse the data that you have collected. Look for trends, patterns and anomalies which can provide you with insight into the results of your experiment. Base your conclusions on your analysis.
Evaluate the validity and reliability of your data considering factors such as sample size, consistency, and possible errors. Recommend improvements and modifications that would make your future experiments more accurate and reliable.
Research and Referencing #
While researching topics, one must collect information from valid and credible sources, including peer-reviewed journals, scholarly books and professional websites. One must assess the quality of sources utilized in a systematic way, analysing each source’s strengths and weaknesses. Ensure that your sources are correctly referenced in your lab reports, using the agreed-upon citation style (e.g., APA, Harvard). Precise referencing not only credits original authors but also enhances the validity of your research. Carefully proofread your citations to prevent any accidental instances of plagiarism.
Communication #
Set out your findings logically and clearly. Use headings, subheadings and bullet points to structure your report. Present your data graphically in the form of appropriate graphs and charts. Choose the right type of graph (e.g., bar chart, line graph, scatter plot) that best represents your data. Label your graphs properly and include legends wherever necessary.
Applying Knowledge to Novel Situations #
Apply your theoretical learning to new and unfamiliar situations. Approach each problem in a methodical way, breaking it down into manageable steps. Use your understanding of principles to develop solutions. Think outside the box in your research experiments. Expand your mind from the traditional and be willing to embrace new approaches and procedures. Cultivating creativity can result in ground-breaking findings and advances in scientific research.
And most importantly, ask if you’re not sure! There’s no harm in asking, and it’s important to be safe while doing these experiments. Always follow instructions and dispose of waste products as per your institution’s guidelines.
