Montana State University Bozeman - Montanan Yearbook (Bozeman, MT)

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ACKICUI.TUKAI. AND DOMKSTIC SCIKNCB HUII.DINO 70 BK COM PI-CTED 1908

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DRILL HALL 13

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With the Various Departments SCIENCE BOUT three hundred years ago a new method of studying science was given to the world. It is now generally known as the scientific method. The development of science since the middle ages has been so greatly indebted to this method and it is such an important factor in properly teaching all branches of science that it is very desirable that the chief characteristics of the method be thoroughly understood. If we analyze the methods of the early Grecian philosophers and contrast them with those of scientists today, it becomes apparent that the scientific method is defined, in part at least, when we say that its chief characteristics are, ‘‘open mindedness and a desire for truth.” In consequence, scientific opinions are based on observed facts and not upon hearsay merely. It is not always possible for one to verify all his conclusions by his own experiences or by direct observations. Much of the knowledge a person uses must, of necessity, be the result of the experiences of others. However, it is always possible for the scientist carefully to differentiate between those opinions he holds as the result of his own observation and those he has obtained from evidence that comes to him indirectlv. This discrimination is very essential to the successful scientist. It is manifestly true that this same capacity should be cultivated by all people, not only when dealing with problems of science, but also when forming opinions about religion, politics, and the social sciences. It is apparent that the scientific method finds application in other fields of work and the student of science in college receives the benefits peculiar to that subject just so far as he absorbs a true scientific spirit. It is the duty of the science departments of a technical school like ours to surround the students with such influences as will cultivate habits of thought and action which are in accord with the principles of the scientific method. To establish this condition of affairs, the instruction must be genuine in every particular. The student can very quickly form accurate judgment concerning the genuineness of any system of instruction. In this connection it is safe to say that the method which usually appeals to the student the most, is one where the teacher does not attempt to force his own conclusions and beliefs, but rather presents the facts as he sees them and then gives the student every opportunity to form his own opinions. In this, the guidance and help of the teacher may often be needed.