The Nature of Science and Research

The process of science is not as simple as the scientific method that is often taught in schools. This process is highly nonlinear and has significant feedback from society as a whole and from the scientific community. A great resource and model for thinking about these issues is the Understanding Science website.

The larger scientific community can be modeled in a group undergraduate research experience by having frequent in class presentations and peer feedback. Study questions and results can also be vetted with the use of technological aids like discussion boards. Students doing research should also have a firm grasp of the relationship of their project to society. This seems to be difficult for many students, but it can be tested through not only scientific writing and presentations, but in oral field quizzes and exams as well.