Overview
This lecture introduces the foundations of science, the scientific method, how knowledge builds collaboratively, and the role of models, data, and communication in scientific progress.
What is Science?
- Science comes from a Latin word meaning "to know," but its core is asking questions driven by curiosity.
- Science spans big questions (like the universe's origins) and small everyday mysteries.
- Some questions, like those on morality, fall outside science’s scope.
History and Process of Science
- People worldwide have practiced science through observation for thousands of years.
- Modern science formalized the process with the scientific method: a structured approach to inquiry.
The Scientific Method
- Steps: make an observation, ask a question, form a testable hypothesis, experiment, analyze results, report conclusions, and create new hypotheses.
- In reality, the process is often non-linear and involves revisiting steps and adapting as new evidence emerges.
- Scientific progress often sparks more questions and revisions.
Collaboration in Science
- Science is typically a collaborative group effort, not the work of solo geniuses.
- Examples like Dr. Leloir's team show how resourcefulness and teamwork drive discoveries.
- Scientific knowledge grows through ongoing communication, repetition, and peer review.
Theories, Laws, and Peer Review
- A scientific theory is a well-supported, broad explanation backed by extensive evidence and expert consensus.
- A scientific law describes universal, consistent observations in the physical world.
- Peer review ensures research is evaluated by experts before being published.
Data Literacy and Models
- Data literacy (reading, creating, and interpreting data) is essential for reliable scientific work.
- Scientific models (visual, physical, mathematical, or computer simulations) help explain complex processes and make predictions.
- Models are simplifications; they support understanding and sharing knowledge.
Science and Society
- Science informs policy and works with other disciplines to answer broader societal questions.
- Scientific knowledge is always evolving as new evidence arises.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Hypothesis — a testable prediction or explanation based on observations.
- Scientific theory — a well-tested, widely accepted explanation of natural phenomena.
- Scientific law — a statement describing consistent, universal events in nature.
- Peer review — evaluation of scientific work by other experts before publication.
- Data literacy — the ability to create, interpret, and communicate data.
- Model — a representation (physical, visual, or mathematical) used to explain or predict scientific concepts.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Prepare for the next lecture on how biologists specifically study living things.
- (For educators) Visit biointeractive.org/crashcourse for related classroom resources.