What are the science processes and their meaning?

Answer 1

. Observing

2. Classifying

3. Inferring

4. Predicting

5. Measuring

6. Communicating

7. Using Space/Time Relations

8. Defining Operationally

9. Formulating Hypotheses

10. Experimenting

11. Recognizing Variables

12. Interpreting Data

13. Formulating Models

The first of the science process skills, observation, involves noting the attributes of objects and situations through the use of the senses. Classification goes one step further by grouping together objects or situations based on shared attributes. Measurement involves expressing physical characteristics in quantitative ways. Communication brings the first three skills together to report to others what has been found by experimentation.

Inference and prediction are the more sophisticated of the science process skills. Beyond simply seeing and reporting results, scientists must extract meaning from them. These skills can involve finding patterns in the results of a series of experiments, and using experience to form new hypotheses. It is also essential for a scientist to be able to distinguish his objective observations from his inferences and predictions. This is because scientific inquiry and study depend on objectivity and an avoidance of hasty assumptions in experimentation.

All of the science process skills contribute to a larger purpose, namely problem solving. Problem solving is the reason for scientific inquiry, and forms the essence of it. A typical experiment wherein a scientist uses process skills and the scientific method will start with certain questions being asked. Based on prior knowledge and experience, the scientist will make an educated guess as to the answer or outcome. This hypothesis will guide the design and execution of an experiment.