Scientific thought and methods
Dr Tony Patti
6 points * First semester * 3 hours of lectures per week plus one 1-hour tutorial * Gippsland/Distance * Prerequisites: GAS1062
Objectives On the completion of this subject students will be able to retrieve information from a range of sources including the different types of written scientific/technical literature and electronic databases; demonstrate the organisation of information on a computer database and provide a comprehensive written review on a technical or scientific topic of their choice; demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles underlying experimental design, research in science and computing, problem solving and mathematical modelling; show an appreciation of the methods by which technical and scientific information is managed and preserved, including the nature and role of electronic databases, patents and copyright (including computer software); appreciate the range of communication skills required by professionals in sciences and computing including dynamics of group interaction and conferences; consider ethical issues related to science and computing professionals.
Synopsis The main themes of GAS2062 are (1) how information and knowledge is created including how people learn, think and reason, experimental design and data handling, the nature of research and problem solving, mathematical modelling; and (2) the manipulation of knowledge or information including information retrieval, using international electronic databases and the Internet for information searching, conduct of literature search, organisation of references on a computer database, writing a critical review, patents and copyright (including computer software), conferences, ethical issues in science and computing. Comprehensive study guides are provided. Lectures and tutorials are conducted by a team of teachers. Computer mediated communication with lecturers and between students is encouraged.
Assessment Examination: 55% * Progressive assessment by assignment: 45%
Prescribed texts
Lindsay D A guide to scientific writing 2nd edn, Longman Cheshire, 1995
Recommended texts
Biggs J B and Telfer R The process of learning 2nd edn, Prentice-Hall, 1987
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