SCI173 Understanding Science (8)

Abstract

This subject explores what science is, how it is practiced and its development through history. The subject focuses on the natural sciences and includes an introduction to the social sciences. Students will study science as a human activity that has progressed over time to answer interesting and important questions about how science contributes to culture and society. This 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

Term 3
On Campus	Albury-Wodonga Campus
On Campus	Bathurst Campus
On Campus	Port Macquarie
On Campus	Wagga Wagga Campus
On Campus	Western Sydney Institute

Continuing students should consult the SAL for current offering details: SCI173
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 session	SY/US	Office for Students

Enrolment restrictions

Available only to students in CSU Pathway Program: Diploma of General Studies

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to identify various scientific disciplines, both natural and social, and the valid approaches they use to build credible knowledge.
be able to evaluate the validity and credibility of scientific information.
be able to apply the steps of the scientific method in a simple experiment.
be able to identify the role of the scientific community and the broader community in the practices of science.
be able to discuss ethical considerations in science.
be able to discuss how science influences social values and vice versa.
be able to outline the history of science and the contribution of scientists to the development of science.

Syllabus

The subject will cover the following topics:

The process of science
- universal characteristics of science and the cycle of scientific activity
- the role of the scientific community and routes to scientific discovery
- elements of scientific language (law, theory, hypothesis, metaphor) and principles of critical thinking
- determining the veracity of scientific information
- the scientific method and science as an evolving process
- principles of scientific evidence assessment and experimental design
- the analysis of scientific knowledge and the idea of reductionism
- description of ways in which science progresses, and
- scientific perspectives, including differing approaches to natural and social sciences
Social aspects of science
- public perceptions of science, scientists and their motives.
- relationship between science and values and ethical problems associated with science, and
- ways in which science influences society and vice versa.
Historical Aspects of Science
- historical origins of modern science and the future of science, and
- case studies from the history of science and contemporary science

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The information contained in the 2017 CSU Handbook was accurate at the date of publication: 25 August 2017. The University reserves the right to vary the information at any time without notice.