Introduction to Science and Its Branches

Topic Subtitle

• Science is a systematic process of building and organizing knowledge about the universe. It uses observation and experimentation to develop and refine theories and laws.
• Science aims to create testable explanations and predictions.

Branches of Science

• Natural Sciences study the physical world, encompassing biology, chemistry, physics, astronomy, and Earth science.
• Social Sciences explore human society and behavior, including sociology, psychology, economics, political science, and anthropology.
• Formal Sciences investigate abstract concepts and structures, such as mathematics and logic.

Scientific Method

• Observation involves identifying a notable phenomenon.
• Questioning creates a specific inquiry about that observation.
• Hypothesizing involves offering a possible explanation for the phenomenon.
• Predictions anticipate the outcomes if the hypothesis is correct.
• Experimentation tests the predictions through controlled trials.
• Analysis examines the experimental results.
• Conclusions evaluate whether the results support the hypothesis.

Key Concepts in Science

• A theory is a well-supported explanation of the natural world, encompassing facts, laws, inferences, and tested hypotheses. It creates a comprehensive framework for understanding observations and making predictions.
• A law describes the behavior of the natural world under specific conditions. It focuses on patterns but doesn't necessarily explain the underlying reasons.
• A hypothesis is a testable statement about the relationship between variables. Experiments determine if the hypothesis is supported or refuted.

Scientific Process

• Reproducibility ensures experiments can be repeated by others to confirm findings.
• Peer review allows other scientists to assess research quality, validity, and rigor before publication.

Characteristics of Science

• Empiricism relies on observable evidence and data from experiments and observations.
• Objectivity minimizes personal bias in research, striving for impartiality.
• Rationality utilizes logical reasoning and critical thinking.
• Skepticism encourages questioning existing ideas and theories to enhance understanding.
• Testability formulates hypotheses that can be tested and potentially disproven.
• Tentativeness acknowledges scientific knowledge's evolving nature subject to revisions with new evidence.

Scientific Communication

• Publication in scientific journals and conferences allows for evaluation and building upon existing work by other scientists.
• Effective presentations at scientific forums or conferences engage the wider community with research findings.
• Collaboration is crucial for advancing scientific understanding through expertise and knowledge-sharing from diverse backgrounds.

Ethical Considerations in Science

• Integrity demands honesty and accuracy in data collection, analysis, and reporting.
• Transparency promotes openness in research methodology, data, and conclusions by making the process and results accessible.
• Responsibility emphasizes the ethical and beneficial use of scientific knowledge.
• Safety prioritizes the well-being of participants and researchers in experiments by adhering to safety protocols.
• Conflict of interest awareness and avoidance help maintain objectivity in research.