Page:SELECTED ESSAYS of Dr. S. S. KALBAG.pdf/192

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Another skill that is not part of the scientific approach, but a valuable asset in scientific thinking, is the ability to express, precisely and concisely. There is a strong belief that we can only think in a language. To be able to put our ideas clearly, therefore, helps in thinking. Therefore, in conclusion, developing scientific temper involves refining the natural process of thinking by inculcating certain habits and skills. These include sharpening our observations, acquiring a habit of quantifying information, practicing recording of all relevant data in a systematic way, organising the information to be able to recognise any patterns, thinking about why and how those patterns arise, making a hypothesis, that is, thinking of a possible explanation for the observed phenomena, and finally verifying whether the explanation holds good in other similar situations. It is my experience that the above approach is not only useful in technical matters but also in all everyday activities. Such a scientific temper gives immediate economic returns by increasing efficiency and productivity. I feel that if we succeed in giving this scientific approach to all our students at the school leaving stage, they will learn by themselves for the rest of their life. Unfortunately, even many of the science and engineering students do not have such a scientific temper and therefore make poor scientists or engineers. Rural Development Through Education System 179