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Observation vs. Inference. An observation is actually what we perceive using our senses - touch, smell, sound, sight – in chemistry, we never use taste. Observation vs. Inference. A perception is information from our senses. Be CAREFUL – Our brain can play tricks on us!. READY.
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Observation vs. Inference • An observation is actually what we perceive using our senses - touch, smell, sound, sight – in chemistry, we never use taste.
Observation vs. Inference • A perception is information from our senses. • Be CAREFUL – Our brain can play tricks on us!
Observation vs. Inference • Inferences are conclusions that we make based upon our observations and personal perceptions.
Why is this important? • If we want to be a good lab practitioners, we must be able to separate observation from inference (fact from fiction) • A good lab practitioners has seen something and can accurately communicate the information as facts.
How to be a good lab practitioners • Pay attention to details • Systematically observe the entire event from one end to the other • Look at EVERYTHING! (This is not easy)
How to be a good lab practitioners 2. Turn off your personal bias (filters). • Everything that you observe may be important –
How to be a good lab practitioners 3. Don’t jump to conclusions. • Your personal knowledge and experience may lead you to the wrong conclusion. • The more information you have, the better your conclusions will be later
How to be a Good Witness 4. Write everything down. • Our memories are faulty. • Evidence allows other to see the same facts and interpret them in different ways.