Preview - Scientific Method

Scientific Method

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Scientific Method (23:00)

Item# 8428
©1999

This program examines the basic elements of the scientific method: defining and researching the problem, forming a hypothesis, gathering information through experimentation and observation, analyzing the data, forming a conclusion, and communicating the results. Practical applications of the scientific method, such as testing new medicines and analyzing the performance of sporting goods, are included as well. Correlates to the National Science Education Standards developed by the National Academies of Science and Project 2061 Benchmarks for Science Literacy from the American Association for the Advancement of Science. A Cambridge Educational Production. (23 minutes)

Segments in this Video - (7)

1. Scientific Method Defined (01:45)

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The scientific method defines the problem, forms a hypothesis, executes experiments and observations, analyzes the data, forms a conclusion, and communicates the results.

2. Define the Problem (02:00)

All science adds to knowledge. Applied science solves practical problems while pure science answers a question. Applied science often arises from pure science, like the discovery of penicillin.

3. Form a Hypothesis (03:07)

A hypothesis must be testable, is stated in an "If. . . Then" format, and is proved or disproved by experimentation. Theories explain a body of data and often lead to new hypotheses.

4. Experiments and Observations (05:44)

Scientifically valid experiments include an independent variable, an experimental group and a control group, repeated trials, and sometimes a single- or double-blind test to eliminate bias.

5. Analyze and Communicate Data (02:53)

By analyzing the results, scientists are looking for a significant difference between the experimental and control groups. These results are published for review and duplication by others.

6. Scientific Method Applications (03:28)

The scientific method is used every day for almost everything we see and touch, from improving golf balls to developing a new drug in a long and costly process.

7. Questioning and Testing (02:18)

Applying the scientific method for improving a baseball player's batting average is described.