University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 40

ECTS credits : 20

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

Science and technology are key elements of modernity, and, of course, they have a history. This module will introduce students to core themes in the history of science from the Scientific Revolution onwards. Students will read a mixture of primary and secondary sources, and will be challenged to think about changes over time in such issues as: the definition and cultural status of 'science'; the status and role of its practitioners; the motivations for the pursuit of natural knowledge; the methods employed for making and communicating knowledge; and the spaces and sites of knowledge production and communication. Sessions will usually be co-taught by members of staff who bring different perspectives, cases and period-expertise to the discussion.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 2-hour seminar.

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: Coursework = 100%


Re-assessment: New coursework: 6,000-word essay