The instructor then uses the same tool to rate the student work against the same criteria and providing appropriate feedback for the ratings. The collection of data, both qualitative and quantitative, is central to the process of science. Data serve both to construct and deconstruct scientific hypotheses. Any measurement contains an inherent uncertainty, and this uncertainty affects the conclusions that can be drawn from data. Patterns The detection of patterns among data is a powerful tool to discover possible relationships.
Patterns also serve as a mechanism for categorization and organization of information.
The identification of the characteristics and boundaries of a system is critical for meaningful study. Modeling Observations of phenomena lead to the development of models that attempt to explain and predict the physical universe. A model is a dynamical tool, open to and encouraging of revision and refinement. Symmetry Symmetry exists on many different scales of reference in the physical universe. Its discovery can lead to deeper insights in the analysis of various phenomena.