For example, after measuring physical properties, students might investigate the relationship between the density of certain liquids and their boiling points. Although original research by students traditionally has been relegated to a yearly science fair project, ongoing student involvement in this process contributes to their understanding of scientific enterprise and to their problem-solving abilities. The methods of scientific inquiry and technological design share many common elements - objectivity, clear definition of the problem, identification of goals, careful collection of observations and data, data analysis, replication of results, and peer review. Technological design differs from inquiry in that it must operate within the limitations of materials, scientific laws, economics, and the demands of society. Together, science and technology present many solutions to problems of survival and enhance the quality of life.
Technological design plays an important role in building chemistry knowledge.
For example, electron microscopes, super-colliders, personal computers, and spectroscopes have changed our lives, increased our knowledge of chemistry, and improved our understanding of the universe. This strand is designed to help students formulate basic understandings and implied actions for many current issues facing our society. For that reason, it is particularly important to lead students to approach such issues scientifically. Such tasks emphasize the use of evidence in decision-making, a skill that transfers to every aspect of students' lives. There are many available resources that promote one point of view or another about the use of chemicals.