SCIE1001
10 units
1000 level
Course handbook
Description
Science is critical for contributing new knowledge and finding solutions to societal challenges. But, how does it do this? Further still, how does it do this in a world filled with more and more fake facts? How do we differentiate between high-quality science, poor-quality science and non-science? How do you become the best scientist you can be so that you too can solve the important challenges facing society? That is what we explore in this course.
This course will immerse you with your student colleagues and with academic staff to begin the process of 1) building a learning community that will likely become your professional network through the remainder of your career and 2) building an understanding of what it is to be a high-quality scientific professional in today’s world.
You will learn about the many ways to think scientifically. You will explore how science informs debate and decision-making about public issues. You will gain an understanding of what it means to be a professional having scientific literacy and how you can contribute to a better future using your scientific knowledge.
Availability2021 Course Timetables
Callaghan
- Semester 1 - 2021
Ourimbah
- Semester 1 - 2021
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Describe the methods of science and explain the thinking that supports high-quality science.
2. Explain the role of the ethical scientist and relevance of science in society.
3. Identify and describe your responsibilities as students of scientific inquiry.
4. Articulate the importance of the scientific community for the success of science.
Content
• What is science and scientific method?
• How do scientists think?
• How to differentiate high-quality science, poor-quality science and non-science.
• The role of science in contributing to societal challenges.
• The role of the scientist as responsible & ethical world citizen.
• The limits of science.
• Communicating science.
• Learning science at university.
Assessment items
Presentation: Online Oral Presentation
Written Assignment: Nobel prize nomination
Journal: Reflective Journal
Written Assignment: Workshop Preparation Notes
Compulsory Requirements
In order to pass this course, each student must complete ALL of the following compulsory requirements:
General Course Requirements:
- Workshop: There is a compulsory attendance requirement in this course. - Students must attend a minimum of 80% of Workshops to meet course requirements.
Contact hours
Callaghan and Ourimbah
Self-Directed Learning
Online 3 hour(s) per Week for Full Term starting in week 1
This includes directed course content
Workshop
Face to Face On Campus 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term starting in week 1
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.