SCI101 What is Science? (8)
CSU Discipline Area: Generic Science subjects (GENSC)
Duration: One session
Abstract:
The subject describes how science works as a human activity; how scientific data is collated, assimilated and communicated.
+ Subject Availability Modes and Locations
| Session 1 | |
|---|---|
| Internal | Wagga Wagga |
| Distance | Wagga Wagga |
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: SCI101
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.
Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
- be able to accurately identify and criticise misconceptions associated with science.
- be able to communicate the results of research to accurately display scientific data
- be able to show an appreciation of how science influences social values and vice versa.
- be able to show an appreciation of the difference between scientific and general knowledge as well as between science and pseudo-science.
- be able to 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.
- be able to demonstrate an understanding of what constitutes scientifically valid evidence and how it is obtained.
- be able to engage proactively with issues related to public perception of science and to scientific ethics.
Syllabus:
The subject will cover the following topics:
- The structure of scientific data and knowledge
- Determining the veracity of scientific information
- The scientific method and science as an evolutionary process
- Principles of data analysis
- Types of data and data presentation
- Scientific writing and communication
- Science and ethics
- Science and society
The information contained in the 2013 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 24 April 2013. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.