The document discusses the nature of science, defining it as the discovery of nature through following scientific methods like making hypotheses, conducting experiments and observations, and using reason and evidence to organize facts into theories. It contrasts science with pseudoscience, noting that pseudoscience lacks supporting evidence. The document also outlines what teachers should understand about science, such as its historical and cultural development and distinguishing characteristics compared to other ways of thinking.

1. The Nature of Science Allia Nelson

2. What is NOT Science? Scientology. UFOlogy. Parapsychology. Why? Pseudoscience is anything that proclaims itself as science but has no support. It often relies on authority, is unable to predict outcomes well and lacks evidence.

3. Science is Many Things Discovery of nature Following scientific methods Process of learning/finding Organizing facts into theories Studying the universe A collection of knowledge Searching for truth Anything else?

4. The Scientific Enterprise Scientists do work in multitudes of ways, theoretically, experimentally, technologically... Some work alone, but most collaborate in groups. They question, observe, postulate, test and then confirm, modify or disprove ideas. Many strive for deepening knowledge while others design products to improve the world. They can't fix everything and sometimes they make it worse. *Not this Enterprise

5. National Standards Science must separate itself from myth, religious values, superstition & authority. Teachers should: Ask questions about nature. Concentrate on collecting evidence. Give historical perspective. De-emphasize memorization.

6. Standard 2 for Teachers Teachers must understand historical & cultural development of science and evolution of knowledge in their field. They must understand philosphical tenets, assumptions, goals & values that distinguish science from technology and other ways of thinking about the world. They should engage students in studies of the nature of science & include critical analysis of false & doubtful claims when applicable.

7. Thinking Science Beliefs Curiosity Imagination Reasoning Cause & Effect Self Examination Skepticism Objectivity Open Mind

8. Investigating Science Hypothesis/Predictions Observation Experimentation Mathematics In any order “ The scientific method, as far as it is a method, is nothing more than doing one's damndest [sic] with one's mind, no holds barred.” -Alan Chalmers

9. Science Knowledge Facts Concepts Laws & Principles Theories Models “ Don't mistake your watermelon for the universe.” -Amdahl

10. Technology & Society Equipment advances Medicine Travel Government grants Politics Religious beliefs

11. The more you understand about the nature of science, the more you'll enjoy the world. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=swDpWNKB5Co