Tools of Environmental Science

1. Tools of Environmental Science Chapter 2

2. The Experimental (Scientific) Method • Series of steps that scientists worldwide • Observation -the process of obtaining information by using the senses • 1. Problem or Question - to be asked • 2. Hypothesis - a theory or explanation that is based on observations and that can be tested • Predictions - statements made in advance that express the results that will be obtained from testing a hypothesis if the hypothesis is supported.

3. Hypothesis must be in If-Then-Because • 3. Experiments - procedures carried out under controlled conditions to discover, demonstrate, or test a fact, theory, truth • Good Experiments have two things: • 1. Variable - factor that changes in an experiment in order to test a hypothesis • 2. Control - group in the experiment that serves as a standards of comparison • Manipulated (experimental) Variable– one factor that is changed in the experiment • Responsive Variable– the resulting change in the experiment

4. Organizing and Analyzing Data • 4. Data - pieces of information acquired through observation or experimentation • Graphing the information makes the trends presented in tables easier to see.

5. Drawing Conclusions • Analyzing the data and comparing the outcome of their experiments with the hypothesis • Claims / Evidence • The conclusion must tie into the question, hypothesis and supported with data

6. Repetition and Communication • Scientists often repeat their experiments • Scientists look for a large amount of supporting evidence before they accept a hypothesis. • Scientists publish their results • Correlation studies are done when experiments are not possible to look at evidence therefore

7. Scientific Habits of Mind • Curiosity • Habit of Skepticism • Openness to new ideas • Intellectual honesty • Imagination and Creativity

8. Statistics and Models • Statistics - collection and classification of data in the form of numbers it helps to summarize, characterize, analyze, and compare data • Mean– add up data and then divide by the number of individuals • Distribution - range Normal forms bell Shaped curve

9. Probability– likelihood that a possible future event will occur in any given instance of the event expressed 0-1 as a decimal • Risk is the probability of an unwanted outcome.

10. Chapter 2 Thinking About Risk

11. Models • Models-patterns, plans, representations, or descriptions designed to show the structure, workings of an object, system or concept • Various types of models: • Physical – 3 D model you can touch (DNA) • Graphical – Maps and charts • Conceptual – graphics or flow charts • Mathematical – uses equations

12. Values - principles or standards that an individual considers to be important

13. Decision-making model -conceptual model that provides a systematic process for making decisions • Starting point in issues affecting the environments • Be sure to consider you values, weigh the pros and cons, and keep in mind both the short-term and long-term consequences of your decision • 1. Gather information • 2. Consider values • 3. Explore consequences • 4. Make a decision