In principle, a well-designed and well-documented experiment will accurately describe a real phenomenon and provide other researchers with everything they need to reproduce those results in a comparable study.
To replicate an experiment, researchers use the same methods of data collection and apply the same analysis, even though they have to use new subjects, often in somewhat different situations. Subjects may be generally older or younger, for example, or from a different country.
While later tests can’t possibly be identical to the original, they need to be similar enough to yield comparable data.
Concepts like “similar enough” and “comparable data” involve a level of subjectivity that adds to the controversy around replication. When a study fails a replication attempt, defenders often question whether the followup truly reflected the original. Researchers help to resolve such debates when they openly share their data and methods.
Most Popular
Update the Canada Health Act
After four decades, the landmark law still protects universal care – but U of T experts argue it must evolve to face modern pressures Read More
Build Homes for Everyone
Canada’s housing crisis is squeezing families at every income level, but U of T experts say solutions are within reach Read More
What on Earth Is This?
These intriguing objects from across U of T’s three campuses reveal stories of discovery, creativity and Canadian firsts. Can you tell what they are? Read More
