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An introduction to the concepts of science and the scientific method, with a focus on natural resources. It discusses the differences between science and the scientific method, the four basic methods of knowing, and the importance of self-correction in science. The document also covers early developments in the scientific method and approaches to research, including descriptive, comparative, modeling, and experimental studies. It concludes by discussing the goal of science and how the scientific method works.
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USGS Massachusetts Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit^ Instructor: Stephen DeStefano
“Supposing is good, but finding out is better.” -- Mark Twain
theory >>> testing >>> feedback
there are built in checks along the way.
(1) Descriptive Studies -- search for a pattern, and then infer a mechanism -- biggest problem is that a mechanism must beinvoked to explain the pattern...
-- several different mechanisms may produce the same pattern
(2) Comparative Studies -- follow directly from descriptive studies -- observational data are used to describe patterns -- patterns compared in order to infer differences
(4) Experiments -- requires the researcher, in advance, to specify: a. a question b. a means of answering that question thus, -- experiments tend to be better designed -- the goal is to hold all variables stable while manipulating a variable (or variables) of interest
Two classes of experiments
-- can be conducted in the lab or field -- e.g., dose-response experiments removal or additive experiments
-- the scientific method is the most efficient technique
-- it enables us to determine the underlying mechanisms to observed patterns. -- we are thus able to go beyond mere description and
