This video is about the core processes that unite all scientific endeavor:
1. Planning — formulating a strategy
2. Obtaining evidence — making observations
3. Analyzing the evidence — presenting the data and drawing conclusions
The video follows three very different types of investigation: the first is a student-centered classroom situation (testing the sweetness of apples), the second is contemporary industrial research (measuring environmental pollution from the engines of school buses), and the third is an important historical epidemiological study (the association of pellagra with poverty). The essence of scientific research is to build upon existing knowledge, by questioning accepted theories to develop new ones, which in turn leads to further research. The video looks at the use of evidence, hypothesis, testing, reasoning, searching for theories, and elimination of bias. Experiments may not always be successful – the program considers the consequences of faulty reasoning, bias, or improper experimental design. Finally, the video encourages the student to consider the implications of scientific research, the importance of dissemination, how scientific controversies arise, the limitations of science and the applicability of critical thinking to aspects of everyday life. 20 minutes. © 2002. Grades 6-12.
"Vocabulary words and discussion questions appear onscreen. Narration is clear and succinct. This video provides a good introduction to the scientific method and controlled experiments." - School Library Journal
