• Question: What skills have you developed since childhood about general science?

    Asked by bones to Jamie, Jodie, Kat, Mark, Niamh on 21 Mar 2011 in Categories: .
    • Photo: Katherine Davies

      Katherine Davies answered on 21 Mar 2011:

      Hi

      The most important skill I think I have developed is to be able to critically analyse and question. All research and results should be ‘teased apart with a fine-toothed comb’ to see what flaws are present, and what different conclusions can be made. Errors in methodology can lead to erroneous analysis, which can have significant implications in the quality of the work.

      Dont just accept something at face value – question why, what if, how could it be improved or be different.

    • Photo: Jamie Pringle

      Jamie Pringle answered on 21 Mar 2011:

      Hello bones,

      I guess I have become more methodical and rigourous when conducting research, I was a little slap dash in my youth, even when doing my Degree course. I also make sure I do the best at everything I do (in the time available), doing the research properly, reading all the background information I can get my hands on, analysing the results and writing a good polished report or technical article.

      It is easy to rush through things when you are young, but if you just spend a little more time, then the results and your grades will markedly improve!

      A lot of the skills are also generic – I can now move into different subjects, taking my skills with me, from geology, to geotechnical, to petroleum, to forensics for example.

    • Photo: Niamh Nic Daeid

      Niamh Nic Daeid answered on 21 Mar 2011:

      HI Bones

      Mainly patience in carrying out experimental work but also the importance in attention to detail and having a methodological approach to solving problems. If your data isn’t produced using a sturdy experimental design, then any conclusions you come to can be undermined.

    • Photo: Mark Hill

      Mark Hill answered on 21 Mar 2011:

      Hi Bones,

      Now you are challenging me, to remember back that far!

      In broad terms, I think the ability to look around me and question my surroundings. Then to try and find answers, rather tham glib acceptance. These are what I consider the fundamental traits of a scientist.

      Mark.

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