The processes of inquiry, experimental design, investigation, and analysis are as important as finding the correct answer. 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. This strand helps students formulate a basic understanding of and implied actions for many issues facing our society.
Many factors influence environmental quality.
Factors that students might investigate include population growth, resource use, population distribution, over-consumption, the capacity of technology to solve problems, poverty, the role of economic, political, and religious views, and different ways humans view the earth. The study of earth and environmental science encourages students to investigate the effects of natural phenomena on society. This is particularly true of spectacular natural phenomena such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, severe weather, and the slow changes in water quality. Students will acquire the ability to assess natural and human induced hazards - ranging from relatively minor risks to catastrophic events with major risk, as well as the accuracy with which these events can be predicted. It is particularly important for students to relate such phenomena to North Carolina and its citizens.