Figure 3c. PISA 2015 Scientific Competencies Interpret data and evidence scientifically Analyse and evaluate scientific data, claims and arguments in a variety of
representations and draw appropriate conclusions demonstrating the ability to:
Transform data from one representation to another;
Analyse and interpret data and draw appropriate conclusions;
Identify the assumptions, evidence and reasoning in science-related
texts;
Distinguish between arguments which are based on scientific evidence
and theory and those based on other considerations;
Evaluate scientific arguments and evidence from different sources (
e.g. newspaper, internet, journals).
41. A scientifically literate person should be able to interpret and make sense of basic forms of
scientific data and evidence that are used to make claims and draw conclusions. The display of
such competency can require all three forms of knowledge of science.
42. Those who possess this competency should be able to interpret the meaning of scientific
evidence and its implications to a specified audience in their own words, using diagrams or other
representations as appropriate. This competency requires the use of mathematical tools to analyse
or summarise data, and the ability to use standard methods to transform data to different
representations.
43. This competency also includes accessing scientific information and producing and evaluating
arguments and conclusions based on scientific evidence (Kuhn, 2010; Osborne, 2010). It may also
involve evaluating alternative conclusions using evidence; giving reasons for or against a given
conclusion using procedural or epistemic knowledge; and identifying the assumptions made in
reaching a conclusion. In short, the scientifically literate individual should be able to identify logical
or flawed connections between evidence and conclusions.