SCI1020

The design of science ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Kais Hamza

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2005 (Day)
Malaysia First semester 2005 (Day)
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2005 (Day)
Gippsland Second semester 2005 (OCL)
Malaysia Second semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: SCI1020 provides students with a framework for how we acquire knowledge, how people learn and think and basic problem solving strategies. Principles of experimental design, data acquisition and appraisal issues and some basic statistics. Presentation of data, storage or repositories of scientific information, ways of communicating scientific information and examples of use and misuse of scientific information.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will have an understanding of the manner in which scientific information and knowledge is created or acquired and how this information may be subsequently utilised in fields of scientific endeavour and beyond. On completion of this unit, students will be able to: provide examples of applications of the ?Scientific Method?; recognise the importance of appropriate Experimental Design and Data Analysis; understand the importance of probability and uncertainty in measurement and sampling; analyse data for validity, for scientific presentation and inference; recognise the value of statistical analysis, mathematical modeling and visualisation techniques as creative tools in relation to the generation and use of scientific information; competently use a number of computer software packages including spreadsheets, databases and selected statistical packages; understand how Scientific Information is generated and stored and demonstrate basic skills in the retrieval, manipulation and communication of that information.

Assessment: Written examination: 50% + Assignments: 50%

Prohibitions: Students who have successfully completed STA1010 cannot subsequently undertake SCI1020.