Course Title: Science of Global Challenges

Course Code: GEC-111

 What is science

• Science is a systematic method of studying the natural world through observation,

experimentation, and analysis to understand how things work. It involves formulating hypotheses,
conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions based on evidence. Science covers various
fields such as physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and many others.
 What qualifies as science?

Science is characterized by several key attributes:

1. Empirical evidence: Scientific knowledge is based on observations and experimentation, which provide evidence for theories and hypotheses.

2. Testability: Scientific claims must be testable through experiments or observations that can either support or refute them.

3. Falsifiability: Scientific theories and hypotheses must be capable of being proven false or incorrect. This means they can be tested and potentially rejected if
evidence contradicts them.
4. Reproducibility: Scientific findings should be replicable by other researchers under similar conditions, ensuring the reliability of results.

5. Objectivity: Scientists strive to minimize bias and subjectivity in their observations, analyses, and interpretations of data.

6. Consistency: Scientific explanations should be consistent with existing knowledge and not contradict well-established principles unless there is compelling
evidence to revise or expand them.
7. Peer review: Scientific research undergoes scrutiny by other experts in the field before being published in reputable journals, ensuring quality and reliability.
 Why does it matter

• Overall, science aims to provide explanations and predictions about the natural world based on empirical evidence and rationa l analysis.
• Science matters for several reasons:

• 1. Understanding the world: Science helps us understand the natural world, from the behavior of subatomic particles to the dynamics of
galaxies, and everything in between.

• 2. Technological advancements: Scientific discoveries drive technological innovations that improve our lives, from medical treatments
and transportation to communication and energy production.

• 3. Solving problems: Science provides tools and methodologies for addressing complex challenges such as climate change, disease
outbreaks, and food insecurity.
 Why does it matter

• 4. Critical thinking: Scientific inquiry fosters critical thinking skills, teaching us to evaluate evidence, challenge assumptions, and make
informed decisions.
• 5. Economic growth: Science and technology are major drivers of economic growth, creating new industries, jobs, and opportunities for
innovation.
• 6. Health and well-being: Scientific research leads to advancements in medicine, public health, and sanitation, contributing to longer
lifespans and improved quality of life.
• 7. Environmental stewardship: Science provides insights into the impact of human activities on the environment, guiding efforts to
conserve biodiversity, protect ecosystems, and mitigate pollution.
• Overall, science is essential for progress, prosperity, and the sustainable stewardship of our planet.
• Science matters because it provides a reliable method for understanding the world around us and solving complex problems. Without
science, we would lack the knowledge and tools necessary to address critical challenges, advance technology, improve health, and
sustain our planet. In essence, science matters because it is the foundation of progress, innovation, and the betterment of h umanity
 Who practices it?

1. Researchers: Scientists working in

2. Engineers: Engineers apply 3. Physicians and medical
universities, research institutions,
scientific principles to design and professionals: Medical professionals
Science is practiced by a diverse array and laboratories conduct
create technologies, products, and utilize scientific research to diagnose
of individuals, including: experiments, analyze data, and
systems that meet societal needs and and treat diseases, develop new
publish findings to advance
solve practical problems. therapies, and improve patient care.
knowledge in their respective fields.

6. Citizen scientists: Citizen scientists,

4. Educators: Science educators teach
5. Technicians: Technicians support including amateur astronomers,
students at all levels, from
scientific research by performing birdwatchers, and environmental
elementary school to university,
experiments, maintaining equipment, enthusiasts, contribute to scientific
providing them with the foundational
and collecting data under the research by collecting data,
knowledge and skills needed to
guidance of researchers. participating in community science
understand and engage with science.
projects, and sharing observations.
 Introduction to Important Terminology

Fact : A fact is an observation that can be verified and is supported by evidence. It is a statement that is objectively true and ca n be
confirmed through observation or experimentation. For example: The Earth revolves around the Sun. This can be verified through
astronomical observations and calculations.

Hypothesis : A hypothesis is a testable prediction or educated guess about the relationship between two or more variables. It is often
formulated based on observations and leads to further investigation. For example: If plants receive more sunlight, then they will grow taller.
This hypothesis can be tested by measuring the growth of plants under different sunlight conditions.

Theory: A theory is a well-substantiated explanation of an aspect of the natural world, based on a body of evidence and repeated testing.
Theories integrate and generalize many facts and hypotheses, providing a framework for understanding. For example: The Big Bang Theory
describes the origin of the universe, integrating evidence from astronomy, cosmic microwave background radiation, and the obs ervable
expansion of galaxies.

Law : A scientific law is a statement that describes a consistent and universal relationship observed in nature. Laws summarize patterns
found in nature but do not explain why those patterns exist. For example: Newton's Law of Universal Gravitation states that every mass
attracts every other mass with a force proportional to the product of their masses and inversely proportional to the square of the distance
between their centers. It describes gravitational behavior but does not explain the underlying reasons for gravity.
 Introduction to Important Terminology

Variable: Any factor that can change or be changed in an experiment. Variables are typically classified as independent (the variable
manipulated by the researcher), dependent (the variable being measured or observed), or controlled (variables kept constant to prevent
interference).
Data: Information collected through observation, experimentation, or measurement. Data can be qualitative (descriptive) or quantitative
(numerical) and serve as the basis for analysis and drawing conclusions in scientific research.

Peer review: The evaluation of scientific work by impartial experts in the same field before it is published in a scientific journal. Peer review
helps ensure the quality, validity, and reliability of scientific research.

Control group: In an experiment, the group that is not subjected to the experimental treatment and is used as a baseline for comparison
with the experimental group(s) that receive the treatment.

Replication: The process of repeating an experiment or study to verify the reliability and validity of its results. Replication helps conf irm the
reproducibility of scientific findings.

Empirical: Based on, concerned with, or verifiable by observation or experience rather than theory or pure logic. Empirical evidence is
central to scientific inquiry and forms the basis for testing hypotheses and theories.