Observation
The fi rst process in the scientifi c method involves the
observation of a phenomenon, event, or “problem.” The discovery
of such a phenomenon may occur due to an interest on
the observer’s part, a suggestion or assignment, or it may be
an annoyance that one wishes to resolve. The discovery may
even be by chance, although it is likely the observer would be
in the right frame of mind to make the observation. It is said
that as a boy, Albert Einstein wanted to know what it would be
like to ride a light beam, and this curious desire stuck with him
throughout his education and eventually led to his incredible
theories of electromagnetism.