University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 20

ECTS credits : 10

Level : SCQF level 7

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Tues, Wed, Thurs 1300-1400

This module aims to lead students through the scientific quest for the origin of life on Earth and the prospect for finding life on other planets, both in our solar system and on habitable worlds elsewhere in the Galaxy. The course will cover diverse topics in biology, geology, astronomy and chemistry, which together comprise the field of astrobiology. The course will study the origins and evolution of planets and life on Earth, and use this as a framework for how to search for life in our Solar System and beyond, including exploring how science interfaces with society. Due to the wide range of science topics covered, the module is applicable to any Science faculty student. A key component of the course will be to examine the scientific method, how scientific theories are developed and refuted, and discuss the burden of proof for extraordinary claims.

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Lectures (3 hours x 11 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 33

Guided independent study hours: 166

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 50%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 50%

Re-assessment: Written Examination = 80%, Coursework = 20%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr C R Cousins
Module teaching staff: Dr Claire Cousins, Dr Sami Mikhail, Dr Eva Stueeken, Dr Mark Claire
Module coordinator email crc9@st-andrews.ac.uk

Intended learning outcomes

• Recognise the interfaces that exist between the physical and biological sciences
• Understand core topics including the formation and evolution of planets and life, Solar System environments, and space exploration
• Develop skills in writing, verbal and digital communication
• Understand how to graphically plot, analysis and interpret a dataset
• Understand how to calculate physical properties of planets
• Develop skills in critically assessing fictional and scientific published literature