Study@ANU 2010

Ethics, Issues and Consequences of Science SCOM8021  - Details

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Offered By: Centre for Public Awareness of Science
Academic Career: Graduate Coursework
Course Subject: Scientific Communication
Offered in: Second Semester, 2010
Unit Value: 6 units
Course Description:

Science and technology do not exist in isolation. They play a significant role in our lives and are often surrounded by ethical and moral issues that need to be addressed to encourage informed decision making. The multi-cultural society in which we live can strongly influence the way in which individuals view new scientific developments.   This course looks at science and how it is communicated in a cultural context, as well as debating the issue of who bears the responsibility when things go wrong. Modern and especially current issues in science are addressed in this course.
Learning Outcomes:

On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to:

1. Recognise the role culture plays in our understanding and evaluation of the benefits of science
2. Explain the techniques and ideas used by science communicators to enhance public awareness of science in the community
3. Discuss how science ethics are intimately linked to culture and society
4. Consider and analyse science in the context of your local community and society at large
5. Appraise how people judge science and its consequences in ways that are far from scientific or science-based
6. Investigate how other people think about science in society
Indicative Assessment:

Assessment will be based on:

  • Participation in online dicussion forum (25%; LO 1, 2, 3, 5)
  • Five end of module assignments (5 x 10% each; LO 1, 2, 4)
  • Final report demonstrating critical engagement with the issues of the course (25%; LO 1, 5, 6)
Course Classification(s): AdvancedAdvanced courses are designed for students having reached 'first degree' level of assumed knowledge, which provide a deep understanding of contemporary issues; or 'second degree' and higher levels of knowledge; or for transition to research training programs.
Areas of Interest: Science Communication
Eligibility: Bachelor degree; Science degree or Bachelor of Education with science teaching experience.
Programs: Master of Contemporary Science, Master of Climate Change, and Master of Archaeological Science
Academic Contact: Dr Rod Lamberts
Please direct all enquiries to: Student Business Solutions
Page authorised by: The Registrar
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