Week 2 The Nature of Science (Lecture 1)

Question 1

Define the purpose of science

Answer 1

acquire knowledge and understanding of the natural world

Question 2

What are the boundaries and limitations of science.

Answer 2

Empirical Nature: Science relies on empirical evidence, which means it deals primarily with observations and measurements that can be directly observed or measured.

Subjectivity and Bias: While science strives for objectivity, it is still conducted by human beings who may introduce bias into their research. Subjective interpretations, cultural influences, and personal beliefs can sometimes affect the design, conduct, and interpretation of scientific studies.

Incompleteness: Scientific knowledge is always evolving and incomplete. New discoveries can challenge and refine existing theories, and there may be aspects of the natural world that remain unexplored or poorly understood. Science does not provide absolute or final answers.

The processes of science are very successful in dealing with problems within the limits of science.

Question 3

what does the acronym CONPTT stand for

Answer 3

Consistent: The results of repeated observations and/or experiments concerning a naturally occurring event are reasonably the same (consistent) when performed and repeated by competent investigators.

Observable: The event under study, or evidence of the occurrence of the event, can be observed and explained. The observations are limited to the basic human senses or to extensions of the senses by technology.

Natural: A natural cause (mechanism) must be used to explain why or how the naturally occurring event happens. Scientists may not use supernatural explanations as to why or how
naturally occurring events happen because reference to the supernatural is outside of the realm of science.

Predictable: The natural cause (mechanism) of the naturally occurring event can be used to make specific predictions. Each prediction can be tested to determine if the prediction is true of false.

Testable: The mechanism of the naturally occurring event must be testable through the processes of science, controlled experimentation being only one of these.

Tentative: Scientific theories are subject to revision and correction, even to the point of the
theory being proven wrong. Scientific theories have been modified and will continue to be modified, getting better and better (closer to reality) to consistently explain observations of naturally occurring events.

Question 4

what is The Scientific Method

Answer 4

systematic approach to conducting empirical research

Observation

Hypothesis

Experiment

Data Collection

Analysis

Results

Conclusion: Accept or Reject Hypothesis

Review

Publish

OHE-DARCRP

Question 5

what is the difference between the Scientific Process and Scientific Method

Answer 5

The “Scientific Method” typically refers to a specific, structured series of steps or procedures that scientists follow when conducting experiments or investigations. It is often presented as a linear sequence of stages, including observation, hypothesis formulation, experimentation, data collection, analysis, conclusion drawing, and communication of findings.

The “Scientific Process,” on the other hand, is a broader and more inclusive term that encompasses the entire range of activities and considerations involved in scientific research. It includes not only the specific steps of the Scientific Method but also elements such as background research, literature review, ethical considerations, collaboration, data interpretation, and the application of findings. In this sense, the Scientific Process recognizes that science is not always a strictly linear process and that scientific inquiry involves a wide array of activities and decision points.

Question 6

a scientific theory is an educated guess. True or false

Answer 6

False.

A scientific theory is not an educated guess. Instead, it is a well-substantiated and comprehensive explanation of a phenomenon or set of phenomena in the natural world. Scientific theories are developed through rigorous scientific research, empirical evidence, experimentation, and systematic testing.

Question 7

A scientific law is a theory that has been proven as fact. true or false

Answer 7

False

Law = predicts what happens
Theory= explains why

A theory will never grow up into a law

Question 8

Science doesn’t really produce facts. true or false

Answer 8

True

it is accurate to say that science does not produce absolute or final facts in the same way that it produces theories, laws, and empirical evidence. Instead, science provides our best understanding of the natural world based on the available evidence, observations, and methodologies.

scientific knowledge is always open to revision, and it is based on the best available evidence and explanations at a given time. While scientific findings are extremely reliable and valuable for understanding the world, they are not absolute or unchanging facts in the way that some other types of knowledge might be perceived. This dynamic and self-correcting nature is one of the strengths of the scientific method.

Question 9

What is the relationship between evidence, facts and truth?

Answer 9

It’s important to note that while evidence and facts are objective and based on empirical observations, truth can sometimes be more nuanced and subject to interpretation, especially in complex or philosophical contexts. Additionally, the availability and interpretation of evidence can vary, leading to differing perspectives on what is considered true. Therefore, the relationship between evidence, facts, and truth is a fundamental aspect of critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and the pursuit of knowledge.

Here’s how these concepts are related:

Evidence and Facts: Evidence is used to establish facts. When there is sufficient and reliable evidence to support a claim, that claim can be considered a fact. For example, if there is overwhelming evidence from multiple sources that the Earth is spherical, the statement “The Earth is spherical” is considered a fact.

Truth and Facts: Truth is the quality of being in alignment with facts. If a statement accurately corresponds with the evidence and facts, it is considered true. Conversely, if a statement is not supported by the evidence and facts, it is considered false.

Evidence and Truth: Evidence is the means by which we assess the truth of claims or statements. Strong and compelling evidence increases the likelihood that a claim is true, while weak or contradictory evidence may cast doubt on its truthfulness.

Question 10

What are Scientific Values

Answer 10

Scientific values are the principles and ethical standards that guide the practice of science and the conduct of scientific research. These values help ensure the integrity, reliability, and credibility of scientific knowledge and discoveries.

• Honest
• Unbiased
• Equitable
• Accessible
• Reproducible

HU-EAR