2) Evolution: The Remarkable History of a Scientific Theory. Edward J. Larson.
Modern Library. 2004. 3) The Ghost Map. Steven Johnson. Riverhead Books.
BIOL 009: Science as a Way of Knowing (3 credits) Hills 234, MWF 1:55 – 2:45 PM Have you ever wondered where all that information in science books comes from? Do scientists gain knowledge from “eureka” moments or from a disciplined process of checks and balances? How are you to evaluate the plethora of information in this age of science? This course tours historical contributions that shape what we currently know in biology and the process by which we know what we know. In addition, we will use your summer reading book, The Ghost Map, and the Evolution text to consider the dynamic interaction that occurs between biological knowledge and other ways of knowing. Through readings, interactive discussions, reflective writings, and writing projects - essay, a letter and a response to an op-ed column - you will build a framework for understanding what scientists know and how scientists know. In the end, you will see how science is one way of “knowing” about our world. Learning Goals (LG): Upon completion of the course, you will be able to: 1. describe the process of science over the course of time. 2. describe the factors that create a dynamic relationship between scientific knowledge and other disciplines. 3. explain why evolutionary theory is the fundamental paradigm of modern biology. Instructor Information: Instructors: Professor Becky Miller (Class Instructor) and Dr. Jim Vigoreaux (Advisor) Office: MLS 102 (Prof. Miller) and MLS 120B (Dr. Vigoreaux) Phone: 656-0454 (Prof. Miller) and 656-4627 (Dr. Vigoreaux) Email:
[email protected] and
[email protected] Office hours for Prof. Miller: Mon., Tues. and Wed. 3 PM – 4 PM Office hours for Dr. Vigoreaux: By appointment only. Course Requirements: Texts: 1) A History of Science in Society: From Philosophy to Utility. Andrew Ede and Lesley B. Cormack. University of Toronto Press. 2012 2) Evolution: The Remarkable History of a Scientific Theory. Edward J. Larson. Modern Library. 2004 3) The Ghost Map. Steven Johnson. Riverhead Books. 2006. Other Readings: Readings from other sources will be assigned throughout the semester and these will be provided as PDF documents or website links on Blackboard (Bb). Writing Notebook: You will need a notebook for all of your notes and writings. I highly suggest that you purchase a spiral notebook, but an organized three-ring binder will suffice. I will collect these notebooks periodically to read, but will not accept loose sheets of paper (even those that are held together by a clip).
Class Information: Attendance
Attendance is mandatory. Only documented excuses for absence will be accepted. More than three unexcused absences will result in a failing grade. It is the responsibility of each student to inform Dr. Miller prior to the start of class if he/she will be absent (sickness, participation in intercollegiate athletics, observance of a religious holiday, etc.). Class will start on time and a student not present at the beginning of each meeting will be marked late. Late attendance will impact the participation grade.
Religious Holidays
Students who are observing a religious holiday are expected to provide a 2-week notice of the absence. You also will be responsible for the missed coursework and are expected to adhere to the established due dates for assignments.
Readings
A class schedule posted on Bb will indicate the daily readings. This content may change and you will be notified in-class and through Bb in advance of the class meetings. Each student is expected to read the material whether or not they serve a direct role as one of the discussion facilitators.
Class Format
This course is not structured as a traditional lecture rather class time creates opportunities for open, interactive discussion and for developing writing skills in the context of learning about scientific knowledge. Preparation and participation are important for a successful learning experience. Class contributions will account for a significant part of the grade, therefore each student needs to show up on time and well prepared. During the discussions, each student is expected to treat fellow students with respect and provide courteous attention to the comments made by each member of the class. To do this you are expected to refrain from using your mobile device (cell phone, iPhone, etc.) for ANY activity during class.
Writing Information
This course is designed to be writing intensive and there will be many opportunities for you to develop these skills. Please take advantage of the following resources as you transition to college writing. 1) Bronwen Hudson, a writing mentor, is assigned to our class and will be available at different times throughout the semester to help you with the writing projects. She and I have spoken so that she is aware of my expectations for each assignment. 2) Writing Center (www.uvm.edu/writingcenter) – an excellent resource where you can get feedback at any stage of your writing (such as talking through ideas, organization of ideas, feedback on a draft, and source evaluation, usage and citing)
Writing Assignments
The class schedule indicates the due date for each writing component. Assignments may be turned in late, but no more than 24 hours. Please consult the rubric for the maximum score a late assignment could receive.
Communication
Communication between the instructor and students will occur by UVM email or by announcements in Bb. Please plan on checking the Bb site often and make a habit of checking your uvm email. When contacting the instructor, please reference the course number in the subject line, use a formal greeting (not “Hey Professor”) and sign the email with your full name. Allow at least 24 hours for a response (especially on the weekends).
Honesty
All students must abide by the Code of Academic Integrity as set forth in the Student Guide to Policies and Conduct. Any student violating this policy will be reported.
Support Services
There are a variety of services available (ACCESS, Learning Co-op, etc.) to help with any number of difficulties or disabilities. Please visit Academic Support and Services for more information.
Grading – Each of the following components will contribute to your overall grade. The specific writing projects are described in more detail elsewhere. Writing Project #1 Writing Project #2 Writing Project #3 Writing Journals (Bb and in-class) Participation
25% 25% 25% 20% 5%
The scale for final grades will be determined at the end of the semester, however, it will not deviate significantly from a standard scale (ie: 90-100 is an A/A-, etc.). Participation Grade – I will keep track of attendance, tardiness, meeting assigned deadlines and obligations and overall effort in class activities to determine the grade.
Participation Rubric A
B
C D/F
Attends class regularly, rarely late, meets all deadlines, regularly articulates concise and organized ideas during class discussions, and attempts to develop writing and analytical skills most of the time. Attends class regularly, can be late, meets most deadlines, regularly contributes insightful ideas during class discussions, and attempts to develop writing and analytical skills part of the time. Attends class regularly, can be late, meets most deadlines, periodically contributes ideas to class discussions, and generally makes minimal attempts to develop writing and analytical skills. Irregular attendance, misses deadlines, minimal contributions (either insightful or superficial) to class discussions, and generally shows minimal effort.
