BSC 3017 - Theory And Practice In The Biological Sciences

College of Natural Sciences

Credit(s): 2
Contact Hours: 32
Effective Term Fall 2020 (580)

Requisites

Prerequisite BSC 2011 with a minimum grade of C and
Prerequisite BSC 2011L with a minimum grade of C

Course Description

This course is designed to provide a rigorous look at the process of biologically relevant scientific inquiry. Students will investigate formulation of scientific hypotheses, experimental design, collection of data, and dissemination of results. In-depth understanding and use of scientific literature will be developed and applied to both written and verbal communication exercises. This course will include challenges faced by scientists including scientific bias, dissemination to general public and incorporation of scientific discoveries into policy. (Note: It is recommended that this course be taken the first semester within the BS Biology program.)

Learning Outcomes and Objectives

  1. The student will differentiate between scientific and non-scientific practices by:
    1. distinguishing between observational and hypothesis-driven research.
    2. describing application of the scientific method, formulation of hypothesis-driven research, and critical analysis of existing scientific knowledge.
    3. identifying the difference between a falsifiable and non-falsifiable hypothesis.
    4. defining objective vs. subjective interpretation of empirical data sets.
    5. evaluating existence of reproducible results through proper use of controls.
    6. recognizing experimental interpretation that considers all data regardless of contradiction of current hypotheses.
    7. comparing the development and testing of scientific hypotheses vs scientific theories.
    8. evaluating controversial subjects of biological science for existence of pseudo-scientific claims, including but not limited to: intelligent design, alternative medicine and exobiology.
    9. determining the limits of the scientific method including differences between reporting facts vs. generating moral guidelines.
  2. The student will evaluate historical, social, and philosophical perspectives on scientific discovery by:
    1. comparing historical approaches to modern views of scientific discovery, from Aristotle to the sequencing of the human genome and understanding how our definition of the pursuit of truth has changed.
    2. examining the factors that shape science and scientific thought and interpretation, including the contribution of societal, technological and personal influences.
    3. recognizing the role of collaboration and competition in science.
    4. analyzing controversial issues, including but not limited to: stem cell research, genetic counseling, gene therapy, climate change, evolution and research on human-subjects research.
  3. The student will critique the practice of biological science by:
    1. synthesizing primary literature, comparing primary to secondary sources and identifying what constitutes an unacceptable scientific resource.
    2. using scientific internet database resources and peer reviewed publications vs. secondary, non-peer reviewed science publications as evidence in written and verbal communication.
    3. analyzing data sets generated by the student or instructor for the purpose of mastering the following: 1) use of scientific method for design and execution of experiments, 2) graphical representation, 3) data analysis/ interpretation and 4) discussion of significance of data with particular attention to explaining the difference between correlation and causation.
    4. identifying the use of proper controls in scientific research.
    5. using statistical analysis and accurate interpretation of statistical significance.
    6. practicing methods of communicating scientific studies and theories.
  4. The student will explain the challenges faced by scientists regarding experimental design, dissemination of findings to the public and implementation of scientific knowledge into policy by:
    1. recognizing experimental bias in scientific research, including those driven by politics, money, religion and personal beliefs.
    2. discussing the impact of media in dissemination of scientific research and discovery.
    3. examining controversial impacts of scientific discovery including but not limited to: eugenics, genetic engineering (GMOs), cloning and embryonic stem cell technology.
    4. participating in the process of grant writing, peer review and composition of a scientific paper.
    5. describing the contribution of scientific experts in building governmental policies.
    6. describing the types of regulations imposed by the government on scientific exploration and discoveries.
    7. Identifying regulations and ethics involving animal testing and human-subject research and examining the potential costs and benefits of new and promising technologies, including but not limited to: stem cell therapy, regenerative medicine, gene therapy, conservation biology and alternative energy resources.
  5. The student will investigate and prepare for future academic and career paths by:
    1. outlining several career/academic paths, the necessary steps required for these paths, and potential employment opportunities.
    2. creating one or more of the following: resume, curriculum vitae, personal statement for graduate school, and cover letter.

Criteria Performance Standard

Upon successful completion of the course the student will, with a minimum of 70% accuracy, demonstrate mastery of each of the above stated objectives through classroom measures developed by individual course instructors.

History of Changes

Submitted as 3042, Approved as 3017. C&I Approval: 05/16/2014, BOT Approval: 10/21/2014, Effective Term: Spring 2015 (495).
C&I Approval: 02/21/2020, BOT Approval: 03/17/2020, Effective Term: Fall 2020 (580)

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