Scientific Thinking

Scientific thinking can be characterized as using established scientific knowledge when drawing inferences, for example, when planning, predicting, explaining, and arguing. At the same time, it can also be regarded as applying established methods of enquiry, for example, observing and experimenting in accordance with principles that the scientific community would endorse. This entry reviews developmental research relating to scientific thinking in both senses. It indicates that, while children use a rich array of concepts to interpret phenomena that are addressed in formal science, these concepts seldom coincide with established knowledge. Moreover, while the roots of scientific enquiry can be detected in very young children, full mastery of established methods is elusive.