Reflection on Science

I have learned so much about science throughout the semester. I have always known that science is all around us but never really to it to heart or analyze it, until this class. I knew nothing about Physics before this class. I was actually a little frightened when you first told us we were going to do it. Getting into the experiment on the roller coaster, I thought, this isn't bad, I can do this. Once we really got into it, I realized it was much more complicated than I imagined. There were many trials and errors. I thought it would go smoothly but we had to make much modifications. I never realized all of the data it needed to create a roller coaster. Even listening to the dance project, I just thought our bodies did it. I never thought about the physics behind it. All of the findings were baffling, and I have a new found appreciation for physics and a sense of pride and accomplishment for creating our own experiment. The geology section also opened my eyes. We see rocks all around us but never really look at them. I found it so fascinating to learn about the fossils on top of the Sandia. I am not from New Mexico and to learn about all of these fossils surrounding us, even at the Butte is so interesting. I run around telling everyone and they just kind of look at me like OK but I am so happy to know all of these new and interesting facts. Comparing the plates, volcanoes, earthquakes, etc, was also so neat how they pieced together. I have learned so much from this class and am happy to have taken it. I never thought I would learn so much from taking this class.

Hardwood vs Baloney Detection

Hardwood Model:
The hardwood model is like a souped up more accurate version of the scientific method on steroids. I have learned that in this class that using the scientific method is not really accurate or appropriate anymore. The hardwood model always for better and more accurate research. It can be used as a step method to compare your research steps and findings to. One can look at this model to see what step they should take next if they are lost, or further enhance their research. The hardwood model is clear and simple and anyone can use this model.

Baloney Detection:
The Baloney detection is steps that you can use to conduct experiments to see if your own research is legit. It can be more importantly used to make sure others research is accurate and viable. There are many things out there that are not correct and should not just be taken in, but analyzed. This method helps use to debunk fact from fiction.

Both:
I think when conducting research both should be used and taken into consideration. I think students should look at these before, during, and after their experiments. This two methods used together can help them create better research. I think that all scientist should also have to use these before they come out to the public about their experiments. Learning about these two methods has opened my eyes to things I never knew. Becoming a science teacher, I will be able to show students how to use this at a young age, so they will learn how to validate things being learned and not just believing everything they hear. I think this not only will benefit me but students.