IKP103 Introduction to Science (8)

CSU Discipline Area: No CSUDC details currently are available.

Duration: One session

Abstract:

This subject provides students with an introduction to science, scientific principles, language and reasoning. It explores the historical development of science as a Western discipline and the ways in which science has influenced social values and ways of life and knowing over time. It examines the nature of pseudo-science and its historical application to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples cultures and knowledges. This subject will also explore scientific principles as they apply to Indigenous Australian cultural practices.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations

No offerings have been identified for this subject in 2013.Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details prior to contacting their course coordinator: IKP103

Where differences exist between the handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Enrolment restrictions:

This subject is only available to students enrolled in the Diploma of Indigenous and General Studies.

Objectives:

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to

show an appreciation of the difference between scientific and general knowledge as well as between science and pseudo-science.
demonstrate an understanding of the role of the scientific community in the workings of science, the elements of scientific language and logical reasoning in science.
demonstrate understanding and knowledge of what constitutes scientifically valid evidence and how it is obtained
engage proactively with issues related to public perception of science and scientific ethics
show an appreciation of how science influences social values and vice versa.
knowledge and understanding of the history of the relationship between pseudo-science and Indigenous Australians.
demonstrate knowledge of the scientific underpinnings of traditional Indigenous cultural practices and ways of knowing.

Syllabus:

The subject will cover the following topics:

The role of the scientific community and routes to scientific discovery
Universal characteristics of science and the cycle of scientific activity
Elements of scientific language (law, theory, hypothesis, metaphor) and principles of critical thinking
Pseudo-science and its relationship to Indigenous Australians.
Principles of scientific evidence assessment and experimental design
The analysis of scientific knowledge and the idea of reductionism
Relationship between science and values and ethical problems associated with science
Historical origins of modern science.
Scientific underpinnings of traditional Indigenous cultural practices and ways of knowing.

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