Don't Do it Alone


			Society for Amateur Scientists Don't Do it Alone

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Don't Go it Alone

by Sheldon Greaves

So you're getting ready to do a science project. Great. Feeling overwhelmed? Not sure what you're doing? Get some help!

Most science projects discourage you from "getting help", meaning the student is supposed to do their own work. But this ignores a very important thing about science. Pretty much all science today is the result of a collaboration. This is because it is not only easier, but it produces better results. Learning to draw on the know-how of others is an important scientific skill. Actually, it's a pretty important skill to learn even if you never do science again.

Of course, you don't want to cheat, and that is the last thing we want to suggest. But at the same time, there are moments when you just need some help. What do you do?

We're assuming that the "help" you need is not an instant add-water-and-stir science project that you can slap together and turn in because you put it off until the last minute. If that's the case, you're stuck. Next time, start working on it sooner. Instead, we're assuming that you need help because you are working on a project and you've hit a particular problem you're not sure how to solve, or you want another opinion about your project, or you're just curious to know more about the subject. Keep in mind that the key to getting good help is to ask the right question.

Online Resources

First, of course, is this CD. There are literally hundreds of practical solutions to research and experimental problems. There is also the Web, but information on the Web can be unreliable, outdated, or just plain missing. Contrary to what most people think, all the world's knowledge isn't on the Web. Not even close. Give it a try, but if you come up short, don't dispair. There are plenty of other resources.

Public Libraries

When you have a question about something, your first stop should be the public library. Most people (even the ones who use libraries a lot) don't really understand how much the average library has to offer. The key to really getting the answers you need is a marvelous group of people called reference librarians. They are experts specially trained to help people find answers to difficult questions. But to get the best results, you have to ask a good question. If you go to a librarian and ask something like, "I want to know everything about gene splicing" you'll do as well or better just to check the library catalogue. But if you have a very specific, clear question, reference librarians are worth their weight in gold.

Finding an Expert

If you have a question about something, chances are you are not the first to ask it. When doing a science project, usually the problems are not cosmic questions, but more along the lines of how to connect this whachamacallit to this thingamabob. Ask yourself who else has to work with whachamacallits and thingamabobs. If you're building something as part of your project, someone at hardware store might help you solve your problem. Sometimes a phone call is all it takes, but it's usually better if you go to the store and show someone a sketch of what you're trying to do (or bring it with you if it isn't too cumbersome).

Another way of finding expertise is to look for clubs and organizations instituted around a particular interest. Most public and school libraries have a book called Encyclopedia of Associations that lists thousands of clubs and organizations on more hobbies and interests than you could possibly imagine. Once you've found a few, check out their web sites (if they have one), or contact them to see if they can help you, or at least point you in the right direction. You can also ask the reference librarian for ideas on how to find experts you can talk to.

One important point to remember: if you get help from someone, and they have taken time away from their regular work to give you that help, send them a thank-you note, either by e-mail or a letter. A postcard will suffice. Being courteous is an important project management skill. Besides, if you need to consult that expert again, he or she will be happy to help you.

Of course, another great resource is the web site (www.sas.org) for the Society for Amateur Scientists. The weekly E-Bulletin has all kinds of tips and resources for science enthusiasts, and if you join the Society, you gain access to a fantastic community of curious people who love to solve scientific problems.