University of St Andrews

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 and 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 and science, the grammar of graphics, the process of science, peer review, research reproducibility, data cataloguing, the treatment of anomalies and 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: Dr Charles Paxton, Team taught