ASC1619

Communication and methods in science

Mr Phillip Higgins

3 points
* Two 1 hour lectures per week
* Second semester
* Gippsland/Distance
* Prohibition: GAS1062

Objectives On the completion of this subject students will be able to use the literature and information of science in an intelligent and aggressive manner; understand the process of thinking and communication of ideas; think logically; understand the interrelations present in the scientific community; define and carry out scientific tasks in accordance with good scientific method.

Synopsis The three subjects - ASC1619, ASC2626 and one of ASC3639, MAT3199 - form a sequence which aims to develop the ability to think logically; the ability to use the literature and information of science in an intelligent and aggressive manner; some of the processes of thinking and thought communication; an understanding of the interrelations present in the scientific community; and the ability to define and carry out scientific tasks in accordance with good scientific method. The main themes of ASC1619 are information - libraries, personal indexing systems, structure and components of the scientific literature, computerised information retrieval services, literature searching, technical reports and preparation and presentation of oral reports; the work on problem definition and solution involves the definition of scientific method and application to real-world problems. Comprehensive study guides are provided. Lecture/tutorials are conducted by a team of two teachers working together. Assignment work is a key part of the learning process.

Assessment Assessment is progressive throughout the semester (or year for distance education) by ten assignments: 100%

Prescribed texts

Lindsay D A guide to scientific writing 2nd edn, Longman Cheshire, 1984