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ID2005   Scientific Thinking

Academic year(s): 2017-2018

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 8

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: Lectures: 1.00 pm Mon, Tue, Wed Tutorials: 4.00 pm - 6.00 pm Thu

This module provides an overview of the rationale, methods, history & philosophy of science and is a more detailed, 15-credit version of ID2003. We explore the different definitions of science, the distinction between science and non-science, the design of experiments, errors in reasoning, critical thinking, personal experience & science, the grammar of graphics, the process of science, peer review, research reproducibility, data cataloguing, the treatment of anomalies & outliers, and ethics. The module is collaboratively taught by staff from a number of Schools of the University providing a useful methodological background for all science students.

Relationship to other modules

Anti-requisite(s): You cannot take this module if you take ID2003

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 x 1-hour lectures (x 11 weeks), 1-hour tutorials (x 8 weeks), 1-hour seminar (x 1 week) 2-hour practical (x 1 week), 6 hours film/video viewing in total.

Scheduled learning hours: 50

Guided independent study hours: 100

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 1.75-hour Written Examination = 50%, Coursework = 50%

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

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 100%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Dr C G M Paxton
Module teaching staff: Team taught