SCIENTIFIC METHODS (13 films)

Duration: 30 min

Year Published: 1957

Creator: KQED

Format: 16mm

Color: B&W

Sound: Sound

Description: Titles are: 1. SCIENTISTS AND PEOPLE. Discusses the role of the scientist in society. Indicates why a broad acquaintance with science is essential for the educated man. 2. OBSERVATION AND EXPERIMENT. Explains the scientific method and how it is used. Points out that science is based on observable facts. Illustrates how complete reliance on the physical senses can be deceiving. 3. LAWS OF MEN AND NATURE. Discusses the laws of men and nature. Provides examples using the laws of conservation of mass and energy. Explains the gas laws and how gases behave. Defines principles and rules and how they differ from laws. 4. INTERPRETING THE EVIDENCE. Explains why natural laws tell how things may be expected to act. Provides examples using the gas laws. Uses a film sequence of molecular action. Tells how explanations of natural laws result in concepts leading to comprehensive theories. 5. MODELS, MOLECULES, AND MATHEMATICS. Explains how the results of observation and experiment can be illustrated with models. Demonstrates with models of crystals and molecules. Tells how models help in understanding phenomena and suggests mathematical relationships. 6. SCIENTIFIC FORECASTING. Discusses the importance of scientific forecasting. Compares forecasting through astrology, palmistry, laws of average, and the business cycle with the scientific methods of valid theory and statistical evaluation. 7. STATISTICAL EVIDENCE. Illustrates the laws of chance or probability. Discusses fallacies of what is 'normal' and 'abnormal.' Points out the variability of human beings by discussing the average man. Emphasizes limitations in what can be predicted. 8. YOU CANNOT KNOW THE UNKNOWABLE. Discusses the limits of predictability. Illustrates the nature of what is knowable and unknowable with the use of a swinging compound pendulum and an explanation of various properties of electrons. 9. SOCIOLOGY OF MOLECULES. Discusses the forces that differentiate species of molecules. Reviews briefly the structure and nature of atoms and molecules. Shows different factors affecting the solubility of gases, liquids, and solids in water and other liquids. 10. STORY OF HELIUM. Traces the scientific value of the discovery of helium to applications in deep sea diving and high altitude flying. 11. BEASTS AND BONES. Explains the methods of analysis used in understanding the complexity, forms, and inter-relations of animals. Demonstrates with charts and models how animals are classified according to what they do and skeletal characteristics. 12. QUIZ PROGRAM: SUMMARY. Reviews the important concepts of the preceding programs through questions and answers. Touches briefly on such concepts as the law of survival, law of averages, intelligence, and the criteria of scientific judgment. 13. TO YOUNG PEOPLE WITH ACTIVE MINDS. Discusses the future of scientific endeavor and the qualities which help make a scientist. Explains why the young person interested in science should possess curiosity, imagination, drive, and a critical sense.

Complete Record: Source: NET Interest level: sh-ad Price: rent ea $4.75 Format: sd b&w

Metadata Source:Educational film guide. Supplements (1959-62)