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SCI102 Experiencing Science (8)

Abstract

The subject explores contemporary scientific concepts utilizing common resources that students can modify in their future careers to inspire the next generation of scientists. Students will study science as a human activity that has progressed over time to answer interesting and important questions and contribute to culture and society. The subject provides students with experiences in scientific process, develops their scientific knowledge, and expands skills in applying scientific methodology to everyday applications. Further, the subject will allow students to experience the scientific process in exciting ways to develop a relationship with the natural world.

+ Subject Availability Modes and Location

Session 1
InternalAlbury-Wodonga Campus
InternalBathurst Campus
InternalDubbo Campus
InternalPort Macquarie
InternalWagga Wagga Campus
Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: SCI102
Where differences exist between the Handbook and the SAL, the SAL should be taken as containing the correct subject offering details.

Subject information

Duration Grading System School:
One sessionHD/FLSchool of Environmental Sciences

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:
  • be able to demonstrate the capacity to engage in scientific inquiry using the scientific method and logical reasoning.
  • be able to identify and critique alternative conceptions associated with science, including critique of science for validity.
  • be able to demonstrate an understanding of what constitutes scientifically valid evidence and how it is obtained.
  • be able to conduct observational scientific investigations independently.
  • be able to identify the differences between scientific and general knowledge as well as between science and pseudo-science, and evaluate how science and societal values interact.
  • be able to demonstrate the application of science content.
  • be able to demonstrate a capacity to engage proactively with issues related to public perception of science and to scientific ethics.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:
  • Science as Process (30% weighting): - Science, Pseudoscience and Alternative Conceptions, including understanding these in the context of culture and society; - The Scientific Method, including contemporary research, reporting (scientific language) and the cycle of scientific discovery
  • Science as Observation (25% weighting): - Classical Methods of Observation, including brief history of scientific discovery and observation as data collection through participation in an observational study
  • Science as Experiment (25% weighting): - Basics of Experimentation, including laboratory elements, safety and participation in a laboratory experiment with 'kitchen-lab' experiments; - Laboratory Ethics, including human and animal ethics as well as values and ethical problems associated with science
  • Science as Experience (20% weighting): - Scientific Research Development, including possible field observations and development of basic scientific questions; - Citizen Science, including the influence of science on society and society on science as well as experience with a citizen science program

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The information contained in the 2016 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 06 September 2016. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.