Science and society
Mr Wayne Kirstine
6 points * Second semester internal, full-year external * 3 hours in class per week for Gippsland on-campus students * Gippsland/Distance * Prerequisites: A science background is not assumed in this subject
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will gain a clear 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; make informed judgements of the likely effect of current science projects and the direction which science and technology might take in the future through 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 the subject, the emphasis shifts to consider studies of 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% * Gippsland on-campus students are required to attend at least 80% of the classes and participate in group discussion * End-of-year examination: 40% * A satisfactory performance on this examination is required.
| Published by Monash University, Clayton, Victoria
3168 Copyright © Monash University 1996 - All Rights Reserved - Caution Authorised by the Academic Registrar December 1996 |