A Scientific Journey through the MET Program
We make continuous observations of the world around us using our senses. As we
experience our environments, we encounter questions exploring the “what?” and “how?” and “why?” of phenomena. Based on existing and prior knowledge, we propose hypotheses to explain what we sense and continually carry out informal investigations that lead us to accept, reject or modify our original hypotheses. We generate understanding of the world around us through the scientific method. The process by which this e-Portfolio has been developed can be seen from the perspective of the processes within the scientific method. As we engage in learning processes, we begin with an observation which drives us to reflect within and propose questions. As we naturally seek the answers to these questions, we plan and carry out our inquiry and at the end, make new observations based on what has been learned. This process continues and an e-Portfolio provides a concrete opportunity to describe the processes involved in learning, documenting the observations, reflections, plans and actions experienced.
SCIENTIFIC JOURNEY EXPLAINED
The scientific method can be explained through a series of logical steps.
- PURPOSE – before one can begin an investigation, there must be an overarching, guiding question which drives subsequent inquiry. The purpose can be expressed as a statement or questions aimed at what is hoped to be discovered
- HYPOTHESIS – once a question has been asked, it is appropriate to make an educated prediction about what the outcome is believed to be. A hypothesis is formed based on previous and existing knowledge as applied in context to the investigation at hand
- MATERIALS– throughout an investigation, materials must be identified, how were they used, and where & when was the work done
- PROCEDURE – a plan must be developed by which to conduct the investigation and ultimately lead to an answer to the original purpose.
- CONCLUSIONS – upon the completion of an investigation, the aim is to be able to answer the original purpose using the data and observations collected. Sometimes the conclusion supports the original hypothesis while other times the conclusion forces one to reject or modify the original hypothesis. A conclusion also guides further research and subsequent investigations.