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SESSION 1: What Is the Nature of Science? |
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| The foundation of science is careful observation. Observation
is limited by the tools and techniques available, as well as the person making the
observations. It makes a difference whether we are using the human eye, a microscope, a
scanning electron microscope, or spectrophotometer. Each new tool allows for observations
and data at new levels, which can change previous explanations of phenomena. The kinds of
observations made and the data collected can vary tremendously. Not all aspects of nature,
for example, are easily measurable and quantifiable. It is easier to measure the beak
depth of Galapagos finches than it is to measure their courtship behavior or songs. During
some part of the day I wrote my Journal, and took much pains in describing carefully and
vividly all that I had seen; and this was good practice.
--
Charles Darwin,
The Autobiography of Charles Darwin, p.78. New York: W.W. Norton and Company, Inc.,
1958 |
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To practice your observational skills, look at this image
of a "Coral
Reef" On a piece of paper write and sketch your observations, using the above
guidelines (e.g., use descriptive language). |
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Next: Elaborate Part D:
Using Science Process in the Classroom |
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