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Discover the unique methods used in geoscience, such as studying ancient features and multiple examples to deduce underlying processes, utilizing systems thinking, and testing hypotheses through observation and prediction. Explore how geoscience differs from the classical scientific method.
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InTeGrate Module:Exploring Geoscience Methods Jim Ebert, SUNY Oneonta Scott Linneman, Western Washington University Jeff Thomas, Central Connecticut State University
How do the Methods of Geoscience differ from the “classical” scientific method? • Reasons from Effect to Cause rather than Cause to Effect (Product to Process rather than Process to Product) • Time is an important consideration • May use experiments • Experimentation is impractical • Temporal Scale • Spatial Scale
Methods of Geoscience (Modified from Kastens and Rivet 2008; Manduca and Kastens 2012) Uses systems thinking Comparison of ancient features (products) to modern processes Study multiple examples from different places and ages to deduce underlying processes Study change over time (detection of patterns)
Methods of Geoscience (Modified from Kastens and Rivet 2008; Manduca and Kastens 2012) Use multiple, converging lines of evidence, Test hypotheses through prediction and additional observation Comparison of observations of the real world to predictions made by models (physical and digital). Models are commonly used to simulate processes that occur on enormous scales and over vast expanses of time.
