SPOC8701 The Nature of Science GE

Topic not offered in 2020

2020

4.5

2 x 50-minute lectures weekly
1 x 50-minute tutorial weekly
1 x 20-minute on-line tutorial weekly

1 of SPOC1701, SPOC2701 has been successfully completed

This topic will cover the fundamentals of what constitutes “Science”. This will include study of the historical development of scientific thinking and philosophies, the investigation of the capacities and limitations of science, and common misconceptions about science as well as consideration of the characteristics of “Good Science” and “Bad Science”. Students will be expected to demonstrate the ability to distinguish knowledge from opinion, science from pseudoscience, and evidence from hearsay.

This topic aims to develop and extend students’ understanding of and skills in:

The philosophy of science
Key issues in the epistemology of science
The nature of scientific evidence and what counts as reliable evidence
The characteristics of “Good Science” and “Bad Science”
Critical reasoning
Effective oral and written communication in academic and professional settings
The diversity and application of English language styles, practices, conventions and forms in academic, professional, public and personal communication

At the completion of this topic, students are expected to be able to:

Analyse and justify the contributions of key individuals, groups, events and developments that have shaped the philosophy of science throughout history
Understand the validity, methods, and scope of human scientific endeavours
Evaluate the reliability, quality and relevance of scientific evidence
Apply awareness of the characteristics of “Good Science” and “Bad Science” to evaluating issues, debates and discussions
Transfer skills in critical reasoning to practical situations
Communicate persuasively and properly for a range of purposes and audiences
Analyse argument and provide a critical response orally and in writing

Key dates and timetable

Timetable details for 2020 are no longer published.

This information is from current details held on the Student Information System. Please report any errors or omissions to the relevant College Office.