Introduction to Science and the Scientific Method

Questions and Answers

What does the phrase 'Nullius in verba' imply in the context of science?

Trust the word of the scientists.

Accept information without questioning.

Doubt everyone or everything. (correct)

Trust only the published results.

Which of the following best describes the origin of the word 'science'?

It comes from a Greek term meaning observation.

It is derived from a Latin word meaning knowledge. (correct)

It originates from a Medieval Latin term for experimentation.

It is a modern term coined in the 18th century.

Which period significantly influenced the development of the modern scientific method?

The Industrial Revolution.

The Medieval period.

The Enlightenment and Renaissance periods. (correct)

The Postmodern era.

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of the scientific method?

Accepting unverified facts. Signup and view all the answers

How does science primarily acquire knowledge about the universe?

Through observation and experimentation. Signup and view all the answers

What does the essence of science emphasize beyond answering questions?

The formulation of questions to drive exploration. Signup and view all the answers

How has scientific knowledge evolved over time?

It evolves dynamically with new discoveries. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best captures the relationship between science and technology?

Technological advancements have accelerated scientific progress. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of scientific work that ensures its reliability?

It is transparent and open to critique. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes basic science?

It aims to understand fundamental problems regardless of application. Signup and view all the answers

What describes the peer-review process in science?

It ensures that only well-supported ideas are published. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception about the scientific method?

There is only one universally accepted scientific method. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true about applied science?

It is derived from the findings of basic science. Signup and view all the answers

What role does analysis play in the scientific method?

It helps researchers interpret data and draw conclusions. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the term 'self-correcting' in science?

Scientific knowledge evolves through continuous questioning and testing. Signup and view all the answers

What does empirical evidence refer to in the context of scientific research?

Information gathered through observation and experimentation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a hypothesis in the scientific method?

To provide a possible answer to a question Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes an independent variable?

The variable that the experimenter manipulates Signup and view all the answers

What is a dependent variable in an experiment?

The data collected by the experimenter Signup and view all the answers

Why are controlled variables important in an experiment?

To allow for a fair comparison of results Signup and view all the answers

How should the conclusion of an experiment be communicated?

By publishing findings in scientific journals or presentations Signup and view all the answers

What does it mean to say that a variable is manipulated in an experiment?

It is deliberately altered to observe effects Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines technology in a scientific context?

Tools that enhance human abilities and senses Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical format for stating a hypothesis?

Using 'If...then...' format Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction to Science and the Scientific Method

Intended learning outcomes emphasize the need to understand science and technology concepts, and readiness for studying Science and Technology Studies (STS).
"Nullius in verba," a scientific maxim, encourages skepticism and verification through experimentation.

Essence of Science

Originates from the Latin word "scientia," meaning knowledge; involves systematic observation and experimentation.
Science is a method for expanding knowledge about the universe, from the smallest particles to vast cosmic phenomena.
It evolves dynamically, driven by inquiries and newly accumulated knowledge across various disciplines such as physics, biology, and astronomy.

Characteristics of Science

Attributes include:
- Empirical: Based on observations.
- Objective: Unbiased and impartial.
- Non-dogmatic: Open to updates and changes based on new evidence.
- Self-correcting: Adapts as new information emerges.
- Systematic: Follows structured processes.
- Transparent: Open to peer-review and critique.

Peer Review Process

Scientific knowledge undergoes peer-review to validate findings, filtering out poor-quality work.
Good science is shared and published through rigorous critique.

Basic Science vs. Applied Science

Basic Science:
- Aims to produce knowledge without immediate applications; fundamental research can lead to unpredictable future benefits.
Applied Science:
- Utilizes knowledge to solve practical problems; often leads to technological advancements such as medical procedures and renewable energy sources.

The Scientific Method

A structured process used to investigate questions about the natural world, consisting of:
- Observation/Question: Identify a problem or curiosity.
- Research: Gather background information and existing literature.
- Hypothesis Development: Formulate an educated guess in an "If...then..." format.
- Experimentation: Design experiments to test the hypothesis.
- Data Analysis: Review data and draw conclusions.
- Communication: Share findings through publications or presentations.

Understanding Variables in Experiments

Independent Variable: The factor manipulated by the experimenter; what is tested.
Dependent Variable: The outcome that may change in response; what is measured.
Controlled Variables (Constants): Factors that remain unchanged to ensure a fair test.

Technology

Defined as the application of scientific knowledge, originating from the Greek "techne," meaning art or skill.
Technological tools enhance human capabilities and senses, making them more effective.

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Description

This quiz explores fundamental concepts related to science and technology, emphasizing the scope and significance of the study of Science, Technology, and Society (STS). Students will demonstrate their understanding of the scientific method and the importance of empirical evidence in verifying statements.