SCOM8021 Ethics, Issues and Consequences of Science

Offered By	Australian National Centre for the Public Awarenes
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Scientific Communication
Offered in	Second Semester, 2011 and Second Semester, 2012
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 Archaeological Science, Master of Archaeological Science, Master of Climate Change, Master of Contemporary Science, Master of Contemporary Science, Master of Climate Change, and Graduate Certificate in Archaeological Science
Academic Contact	Dr Rod Lamberts

The information published on the Study at ANU 2011 website applies to the 2011 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2010 website.