ABSTRACT
As discussed in the overview, the first step of the scientific method is OBSERVATION. In VA/VE, that step is called the Preparation Phase. To observe, we use our five senses (some people have six), surveys, interviews, and questionnaires, which also involve the recording of data. Scientific instruments were developed to magnify human powers of observation, such as weighing scales, clocks, telescopes, microscopes, thermometers, and so on. For things that are unobservable by human senses, scientists use instruments such as indicator dyes, voltmeters, spectrometers, infrared cameras, and oscilloscopes.
