I was a little late for this conference due to inclement weather. However, I didn't miss much as the speaker began with a review of where we left off in the last session. The conference continued with the presentation of the approach according to which the scientific method is empirical. The term empiricism is created about a process in which knowledge is tested through means of experiment and observation. Empirical in science, it helps move away from biases and helps differentiate from other sources where there may be subjectivity. An example of an empirical statement is that all fire trucks are red. A summary of theorists who had different scientific methods was shown; Plato who did not believe in empiricism like Aristotle but in rationalism. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay We also discussed the prevailing views of William Harvey and Galileo. Harvey's investigations into the circulatory system and Galileo's astronomical discoveries. With the help of yet another YouTube video, I saw how these great scientists applied the scientific method with the use of numerous observations and experiments to bring their theories to life which are now facts. I learned how William Harvey tested blood flow in a human body. Before this lesson, I had no idea who this guy was, so I took it upon myself to do some extra research on this work. Another video explained how Galileo tested the weight of two objects: one light and one heavy. He saw that if it were not for the air resistance, both objects would have fallen at the same time. It is quite evident that their procedures were not based on observations but on experiments in which they could be certain and prove their theory. New terms were added to my scientific vocabulary list, such as Observation that I had misinterpreted. I always thought it was limited to the 5 human senses, but it can be supported along with tools. With these tools and our senses, we can collect both qualitative and quantitative data. The other term -experimentation has been used and is known for testing, in order to collect data that responds to the hypothesis. For example, if you want to test the boiling point of water you can conduct an experiment, not an observation. Although the experiment tests and finds out what it is, sometimes the researcher can distort the information at will to prove a hypothesis. As we neared the end of the lesson, we were introduced to laws and theory. I have had some difficulty distinguishing between the differences between a theory and a law. More research was done and I came across a website that clarified both notions extensively. I deduced that a law is an observation that has no exceptions because it is an understandable fact documented after observations. A perfect example is the law of gravity, according to which what goes up must come down. On the other hand, a theory is more of a clarification or explanation of the law. The model concept was briefly discussed. Models include physical, mathematical, and conceptual types. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay At the end of this lecture, I could see the development of science and the philosophers involved. However, regarding this topic, I still think some parts of the lecture were difficult to understand. I need to do further reading to solidify these concepts.
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