Scientific Literacy Course [I]

Course Description

This course is an interdisciplinary course designed for students who are interested in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM).  The course is unique and gets to the core of what it means to be a scientist.  It incorporates research simulation case studies, research seminars, quantitative literacy, and learning strategies to increase students success in their major.  Topics presented will not only provide a better understanding of the nature and development of scientific research but improve aptitude for quantitative reasoning and critical thinking as well as develop an enhanced level of scientific literacy and instill a scientist identity and self-efficacy.

Course Materials

  • Chapter 1 – Scientific Literacy Defined
  • Chapter 1 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 2 – Why is Scientific Literacy Important
  • Chapter 2 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 3 – Scientific Literacy and College Retention
  • Chapter 3 Lecture

  • Chapter 4 – How the Discovery Process Works I
  • Chapter 4 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 5 – How the Discovery Process Works II
  • Chapter 5 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 6 – The Scientific Method
  • Chapter 6 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 7 – Research Simulation Case Study
  • Chapter 7 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 8 – Careers In STEM
  • Chapter 8 Lecture


 

  • Chapter 9 – Research Experience for Undergraduates (REU)
  • Chapter 9 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 10 – How Science is Communicated I
  • Chapter 10 Lecture

 

  • Chapter 11 – How Science is Communicated II
  • Chapter 11 Lecture

Course Goals

Upon successful completion of this course a student is expected to:

  • demonstrate an understanding of the basic philosophical foundations of contemporary science;
  • increase their understanding of the nature and development of scientific research and knowledge;
  • have knowledge of the interdisciplinary nature of STEM;
  • possess the ability to analyze and evaluate scientific evidence and explanations;
  • have the ability to participate productively in scientific discourse through practice;
  • demonstrate improve aptitude for quantitative literacy/reasoning, scientific reasoning and critical and creative thinking;
  • possesses a relevant knowledge of STEm disciplines and career opportunities in STEM;
  • develop the ability to operate effectively in team learning and discovery;
  • possess a scientist identity and STEM self-efficacy, as well as other relevant attitudes and intellectual behaviors for success in STEM;
  • and recognize and personally relate to the multitude of future career; and opportunities in the sienes and how the undergraduate curriculum in a specific science or mathematics major prepares for these careers.

Course Objectives

The objectives of the Scientific Literacy Course are to:

  • learn how the scientific discovery process works, as well as careers in science and undergraduate research opportunities;
  • develop quantitative literacy skills;
  • develop critical thinking skills;
  • develop practical and efficient strategies for learning in order to succeed in college;
  • learn note taking, listening, communicating, textbook studying-reading,and time management;
  • improve test-taking skills, reduce test anxiety, improve concentration and learn memory strategies;
  • discover both online and campus-based resources; and
  • increase the level of scientific literacy.