Mind of the Universe: Science in Progress

Introduction

From William Harvey discovering the circulation of blood to Albert Einstein developing the theory of relativity: almost all scientific research starts from…

Course information

From William Harvey discovering the circulation of blood to Albert Einstein developing the theory of relativity: almost all scientific research starts from something unexpected that hasn't been explained yet, and, subsequently, the scientist creatively imagining possible explanations for it, formulating hypotheses.

However, the problem with formulating hypotheses is the "theory-ladenness of observation": ones expectations determine what one observes. The best way to reduce the negative consequences of theory-ladenness of observation is by continuing to think outside the box throughout the problem solving process, by imagining alternative explanations and hypotheses.

In this learning experience you will be turned upside down by philosopher Tim de Mey, who will challenge you to think outside of your comfort zone. Take this challenge and you will construct the perfect out-of-the-box research question that will tease the Mind of the Universe scientists to explore even better answers in their research.

This online learning experience is a spin-off of The Mind of the Universe documentary series created by the Dutch broadcasting company VPRO and professor Robbert Dijkgraaf, Princeton University. A number of universities in the Netherlands have used the open source material of the documentary series as a starting point to create similar experiences.

For more information and registration: Visit the Coursera website