Modeling the Scientific Method with a (Possibly) Stacked Deck

In this workshop we will model the universe with a deck of playing cards, and will attempt to determine if there is any pattern or ordering principle in this universe. Along the way we will probably gain considerable insight into the nature of scientific theories and what they can, and perhaps more importantly what they can not tell us about the nature of the world. The activity that we will be doing is suitable for students at a variety of levels, as well as science teachers also at a variety of levels.

David M. Harrison is a Senior Lecturer Emeritus in the Department of Physics at the University of Toronto. He has long advocated for reformed pedagogy based on research based evidence. He has won the Canadian Association of Physicists Medal for Excellence in Teaching Undergraduate Physics, the Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations Award for Outstanding Contributions to University Teaching, and also the University of Toronto Faculty of Arts and Science Dean's Excellence Award 5 times.