Today’s Agenda in Science Class: Be Creative (Modified Assignment)

            I haven’t always liked science, and that may come as a surprise to some people, especially those who have met me in the past several years. Actually, sometimes I still dislike science. As a kid, science class made me absolutely miserable. I remember reading out of a seemingly huge biology textbook as a 4^th grader, trying to fill out a worksheet. It was incredibly boring, and I didn't understand why we had to know about, for example, rodent habitats, and why we had to read it out of a book.

            In high school, and even in college, I’ve dreaded going to a science lab class. In these classes, you are given a lab book that outlines every lab for the entire term. Each lab has a predefined list of what to do before, during, and after lab, as well as the result you should get at the end. And, oh yeah, if your result doesn't match theirs, you pretty much fail. It’s not about solving problems, but rather completing a long list of chores, and the worst part, you can't even do the chores in your own way. No wonder why so many people run away from anything science; we are led to believe science is dry, complicated, and full of strict rules.

            If so many people dislike science, or believe they don't belong in the field, then why is Breaking Bad so popular? Or even House MD? Sure, both shows are comedic, but the science ideas and concepts are unavoidable. 

            Simply, these shows are creative. We don't see Dr. House or Walter White following a lab book checklist that was given to them with answers at the end. We see their curiosity and creativeness to solve real world problems. My favorite image is Walter White and Pinkman in the middle of nowhere, using a run-down RV, in their underwear, to make meth. This isn’t the portrayal of science we are used to, but it is one we can relate to.

            The fact is, we all conduct science, most likely daily. Granted, you probably don't make meth or solve outrageous medical mysteries, but I'm sure you have fixed an electronic device problem. You observe, make guesses, and try different ideas to solve the problem. If it doesn't work, you cry because you are missing the finale of Breaking Bad, and then continue to guess, observe, and experiment until you solve it. Or in the process you come up with new questions, like where to buy the cheapest 80’’ TV since your TV died!

            I haven’t had TV problems nor have I missed a finale lately, but I have conducted science in my biology class. To receive credit for the lab units, my partner and I have to ask our own questions, do our own research and analysis, and present our findings. Of course, since it is a college class, we have to stay within given boundaries, like overall topic, certain data, and analysis tools we can use, but we are given creative license to explore our own interests and curiosities. We have the freedom to research and analyze the data in ways that make sense to us, instead of being told exactly how to carry the lab out. And unlike other science classes, the answer isn’t at the end of the lab. In fact, no one knew the answer; we have to draw our own conclusions based on our own analysis. Finally, we present our conclusions in a creative way that we are interested in and excited about. In the last unit we created a slide presentation with mostly pictures and a comical reference to Star Trek. We are able to explore our passions and use our imaginations to complete labs, and because of this, we are able to experience the fun and beauty of science.

            Science is not boring, it’s not about following directions, and it’s not what many classes portray it to be. Unfortunately, early science classes do not allow students to be creative and explore. As a result, I think many individuals whom would make great scientists are pushed away from the field. Many great scientific discoveries have come from creative individuals whom didn't do well in school, but followed their passions, persevered, and changed the world. I think it’s important for people to know that if they are having a hard time in a stereotypical, “by the book,” science course, or have bad memories from a past course, remember that, in reality, science is a creative process. Science is creative. Be creative.

   

         I like visual images, so I’ll end with this quote by Albert Einstein:

One more thing: Here's a Ted Talk snippet that uses dance to explain science ideas. (I think it's super cool!) 
Dance Your Ph.D: https://www.youtube.com/v/UlDWRZ7IYqw&feature=youtu.be&start=45&end=354