SCI2010

How science works

(SCI)

6 points + 2 hours lectures per week, 2 hours tutorial per week, 1-hour practical work/lab session per week + Second semester + Clayton/ Distance + Prohibition: ASC1736

Synopsis: Differences between science, myth, magic and religion, and the differences between scientific validation and that in other modes of reasoning. A series of /grand challenge0 problems will be studied to illustrate either the critical importance of science for society, or the way science works in different scientific disciplines, or both. These examples will be drawn from several disciplines, and they may include global warming, genetic engineering, plate tectonics, alternative power and cosmology.

Assessment: Tutorial presentations: 30% + Assignment/project: 20% + Examination: 50%