ASC1736

Science, technology and society

Mr Wayne Kirstine

6 points - First semester - 4 hours of lectures and tutorials per week for on-campus students - Sunway/Distance - Prerequisites: a science background is not assumed in this subject - Prohibitions: GAS1030, ASC2639

Objectives On completion of this subject students will gain an understanding of the nature of science and technology and the relationships between these two disciplines; examine the historical development of society and its interaction with the development of science and technology; develop an increased awareness of the role of science and technology in our society today and consider means of critically examining that role; perceive the social context of modern scientific research and technological development; to make informed judgements of the likely effects of current scientific activities and the direction that science and technology might take in the future, based on a knowledge of the history of science and technology and their social contexts.

Synopsis This subject provides an introduction to the sociology, history and philosophy of science, the history of technological development, the technological process, the scientific method and an introduction to the ethical, political and economic issues affecting present-day research and technological change. With this background, students can develop an increased awareness and a critical evaluation of the role of science and technology in society. Later in this subject, the emphasis shifts to consider some current developments in science and technology which impact directly on society. Study guides summarising the subject topics are provided along with reading lists.

Assessment Assignments: 60% - On-campus students are required to attend at least 80% of the tutorials and to participate in group activities - End-of-year examination: 40%

Prescribed texts

No prescribed text. Essential reading material is supplied

Back to the 1999 Science Handbook