What is the Nature of Science (NOS)?

Science as a way of knowing Values, beliefs, and morals are a part of the development of scientific knowledge

How do scientists do science?

Observations

Describe naturally occurring phenomenon (with senses) Several observers can reach a consensus (agree) Always a part of the scientific process

Inferences
A logical explanation using thinking and reasoning Can only be measured through its effects Always a part of the scientific process

 Tentativeness

Science is not static, it is dynamic in nature meaning it is always changing Changes in thought and ideas are common in science Scientific knowledge can change quickly or slowly based on new data or evidence

Creativity
Science involves human imagination Invention of explanations, use of models, development of experimental plans

Subjectivity
Scientists beliefs, prior knowledge, training, experience, expectations influence their work Science does not start with neutral knowledge

Social and Cultural Context

Scientists views of how the world works influence the development of ideas

 Difficult to separate ideas from culture and history Historical absence of certain groups in science (i.e. females, minorities, etc.)

Relationship of Theory and Law

A theory does not become a law; theories and laws are only revised

Theories explain or connect large numbers of ideas Laws describe relationships among observed phenomena

Empirically-Based Data
Explanations based on experimental data

Data must be supported or unsupported by observations and/or experimentation

Material adapted from: Lederman, Norman, Ph.D., and Brice, Hortense, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, Illinois, Department of Mathematics and Science Education. 2003.