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Dimension 1: Practices

Planning and Carrying Out Investigations

Scientists and engineers plan and carry out investigations in the field or laboratory, working collaboratively as well as individually. Their investigations are systematic and require clarifying what counts as data and identifying variables or parameters.

Science

Scientific research can be conducted in the laboratory or in the field. Scientists use a systematic approach to investigative activities, which involves identifying and controlling variables and gathering relevant data for testing existing theories or creating new ones. Through such methods, scientists are able to study phenomena, observe patterns, and generate substantiated conclusions.

Engineering

Engineers are continuously investigating the performance of their designs to develop criteria and parameters for specifications. Much like scientists, they identify the relevant variables, decide on how best to measure them, and collect data for analysis. This investigation provides them insight into how effective, efficient, and durable their designs will be in a wide variety of conditions

The Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) recognize and emphasize the importance of three main dimensions for learning science. These dimensions are essential components in forming each standard—or performance expectation. When taken together, they allow students a chance to gain a more cohesive understanding of science concepts as they progress through their courses.

Scientists and engineers plan and carry out investigations in the field or laboratory, working collaboratively as well as individually. Their investigations are systematic and require clarifying what counts as data and identifying variables or parameters.

Three Dimensional Learning

​It is important to understand how scientists work in order to make sense of the world around us. The scientific process is a methodical and logical approach to discovering how things in the universe work. It is the foundation upon which all scientific knowledge is built.

The scientific process begins with a question or problem that scientists want to solve. They then gather data and observations about the problem. This data is used to form a hypothesis, which is a proposed explanation for the problem. The hypothesis is then tested through experimentation. If the results of the experiment support the hypothesis, then it becomes a theory. If the results of the experiment do not support the hypothesis, then the hypothesis is rejected and a new hypothesis is formed. This process is repeated until a theory is supported by a large body of evidence.

The scientific process is not always linear. Scientists may go backand revise their understanding due to new evidence or data. The process generally starts with making an observation or asking a question, followed by formulating a hypothesis, conducting experiments and tests to collect data, analyzing the data, and then either accepting or rejecting the hypothesis. If the hypothesis is accepted, scientists create a conclusion. This conclusion is then put out for peer review or further discussion before it is accepted as scientific fact.

Exploring the Importance of 3DL in S&E: Planning and Carrying out Investigations

Explore the significance of 3D learning in Science & Engineering Practices. Learn how planning and carrying out investigations enhance criti

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Kids Corner

Discover engaging NGSS-aligned lessons, activities, and resources designed to ignite curiosity and foster critical thinking in young minds. Explore hands-on experiments, interactive projects, and real-world applications that bring science and engineering practices to life for kids. Start inspiring the next generation of scientists and engineers today!

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