The county fair featured a science demonstration by “Professor Newton” who blurred the line between science and magic. He conducted experiments that entertained the audience but then he shared the scientific explanation behind what they had just seen and related it back to the scientific method.
For many, the scientific method sounds lofty — something that is practiced only by PhDs in lab coats — but Professor Newton boiled its essence down to concepts that even kids could understand:
- Guess (aka: Develop a hypothesis)
- Do (aka: Conduct an experiment)
- Observe (aka: Measure experiment’s results)
- Answer (aka: Confirm or revise hypothesis)
The simplified formula can be used by adults as well to add some structure to their plans. Rather than just proposing something new without forethought as to what will constitute success, the implementation of a rudimentary scientific method will help clarify expectations, benchmarks and next steps.
Take the advice of Professor Newton and utilize Guess, Do, Observe and Answer for your next project. Those extra moments of analysis will provide some rigor and ability for replication as you move forward.
