Before the scientific measurement of any errors in geodetic engineering, (which are caused by the atmospheric phenomenon of scintillation) can be improved, a thorough investigation of the causes of existing errors in the present methods must be made in an attempt to separate the errors and attribute them to their individual origins. An investigation of atmospheric scintillation and the conventional methods of measuring the phenomenon provides a background for a clear understanding and insight into the nature of the errors incorporated into geodetic and surveying measurements by atmospheric scintillation when conventional techniques are utilized. Such a study will lead to the conclusion that alterations in the present techniques are needed to eliminate or minimize the effects.