1. Introduction to Experimental Design and Scientific Method: Begin with an overview of the scientific method including hypothesis formation, testing, and interpretation. Discuss the importance of experimental design in scientific research. Introduce key terms such as independent and dependent variables, control groups, experimental groups, etc.
2. Types of Research and Experimental Designs: Distinguish between different types of research (e.g., observational studies, experiments, surveys) and various experimental designs (e.g., completely randomized design, randomized block design, matched pairs design, etc.). Discuss when each type of research and experimental design might be appropriate.
3. Sampling and Data Collection Techniques: Discuss the importance of sample size and sampling methods (random sampling, stratified sampling, etc.). Emphasize the role of bias in sampling and how it can be avoided. Review different methods of data collection such as surveys, interviews, direct observation, etc.
4. Data Analysis and Statistical Testing: Introduce basic statistical concepts relevant to high school students (mean, median, mode, range, standard deviation, etc.). Discuss the process of analyzing data obtained from experiments. Introduce the concept of statistical significance and hypothesis testing.
5. Interpretation of Results and Ethical Considerations in Research: Teach students how to interpret the results from their data analysis and how to make conclusions based on these results. Discuss potential sources of error and the limitations of experimental studies. Additionally, introduce the topic of ethical considerations when conducting research including issues like informed consent, confidentiality, and integrity of data.

Example outline for Lecture 1: Introduction to experimental design and scientific method

Outline:

I. Introduction to the Scientific Method (15 minutes)

Activity: Application of the Scientific Method (10 minutes)

II. Introduction to Experimental Design (15 minutes)

Activity: Identifying Variables (10 minutes)

III. Importance of Good Experimental Design (5 minutes)

Assessment: Multiple Choice Questions / Short Answer Questions (5 minutes)

·       The course includes 2 real life case studies in plant physiology and drug development where students are required to design experiments and are graded on their designs.

·       Students will access to all the course content and notes

·       Cost: 6000 rmb per student