Experimental Scientific Method: Advancing Science Education Through Galileo’s Mathematical Equations for His Studies on Gravity and Motion
Azalea A. Gallano, University of the Philippines Open University Schools Division of Lucena City (Philippines)
Abstract
This paper focuses on the experimental scientific method pioneered by Galileo Galilei as demonstrated in his works while he explored gravity and the motions of bodies. The ways by which his scientific method using mathematical experiments advance science education in the early decades of the seventeenth century are highlighted especially how the use of scientific method may either be discovered, refuted or enhanced in the pursuit of the truth. Through expository essay, the astronomical discoveries, heavenly motions, projectile motion, and laws of falling bodies introduced by Galileo through his mathematical experiments are expounded in this paper. Concepts and excerpts from his famous published writings helped in the analysis. While the immense and significant contributions of Galileo to science education, especially the experimental scientific method, are discussed, the ways by which they can be integrated in the curriculum are suggested. HPS lessons for conceptual understanding, application problems in science and mathematics, and experiential learning through derivation of formulas and scientific and mathematical experiments are strongly recommended. The conflict with the Catholic Church that the heliocentric philosophy of Galileo created, the consistency of science with the Bible, and Galileo’s faith in God who created what his telescope revealed are also provided special spaces in this document.
Keywords |
experimental scientific method, Galileo Galilei, gravity, mathematical experiment, motion, science education |
References |
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