Lecture 1-intro to sci Flashcards
Scientific Literacy
The ability to read for and gain knowledge that pertains to science
Science
Systematic process by which knowledge is acquired about the natural world.
This system uses observations and experimentation to describe, explain and predict phenomena
Scientific literacy and the nature of science
A critical component of scientific literacy
that enhances students’ understandings of science concepts and enables them to make
informed decisions about scientifically-based personal and societal issues
is the nature of science. When we describe the nature of science, we are considering the
special characteristics, values, and assumptions that scientific knowledge is based on and how
scientific knowledge is developed. (Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao, 2014)
Characteristics of Science
Empirical (evidence-based) approach, especially through experimentation. emphasizes experience -
provides objective data Means that knowledge is verifiable/accurate
Systematic process- research adopts a certain sequential procedure, an organised plan for
collecting and analysis of facts about the problem unde study; ensures objectivity & consistency
Testability - scientific tenets can be confirmed or disconfirmed through facts
Repeatability of results - considered the gold standard of scientific research as there is always a degree of uncertainty, it gives greater reliability (consistency) t the findings.
More characteristics of Science
Rationality - scientists aim at a rational understanding of reality, use logical
reasoning to make links; ensures consistency and coherence.
Objectivity - idea that scientific claims, methods, results—and scientists themselves—are not, or should not be, influenced by perspectives, value
judgments, community bias or personal interests
Predictive power – hallmark of science, most valued characteristic – distinguishes science from other forms of knowledge; generates testable
hypotheses
Open-endedness - science can only provide evidence; allows for new understanding, for getting as close to the truth as possible.
Why is Science important to us in society?
Advancement of Knowledge
Global Problem Solving
Technological Innovations
Education and Personal Growth
Job Creation
Disadvantages of Science
Ethical Concerns
Environmental Impact
Misuse of Knowledge
Reduced privacy
Inequality and Accessibility
Technology
set of tools & techniques for controlling &
changing one’s environment or purposeful application of science (knowledge) & tools/techniques to solve problems in industry or
in our everyday lives.
Why is technology important to us in society?
Makes our lives easier- saves time
Extends our abilities to do things
Achieve a goal or perform a certain function
It creates new machines or tools
It helps in the development of society
Ethics and Science
Deciding what’s right OR wrong – basis of making ethical decisions - best choice
Scientific investigations must be guided by ethical rules:
Rules help ensure that science is done safely and that scientific knowledge is reliable
As scientific research & technology are changing society and the way we live, scientists can no
longer claim that science is neutral but must consider the ethical and social aspects of their
work.
Modern Scientists and Responsibility
Most not responsible to decide how technologies that can be developed based on scientific
discoveries should be used by
societies (political decisions)
- Accept responsibility for making public aware of likely consequences
Scientists should start evaluating societal as well as economic implications of new research and
innovations at the outset of their project (DARK SIDE)
Dark purposes to which science can be implicate
⮚Concerns range from development of pathogenic bioweapons to potential contamination of native gene pools in our environment
Modern Scientists Responsibility
Ethics and Science
Deciding what’s right OR wrong – basis of making ethical decisions - best choice
Scientific investigations must be guided by ethical rules:
Rules help ensure that science is done safely and that scientific knowledge is reliable
As scientific research & technology are changing society and the way we live, scientists can no
longer claim that science is neutral but must consider the ethical and social aspects of their
work.
what is the equation for the bomb? (alternative energy sources, nuclear energy)
E= mc 2
