Undergraduate - UnitSCI2020 - Scientific methodologies and research techniques

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

Synopsis

This unit prepares students for scientific research by providing practical and theoretical training in planning, undertaking and documenting scientific research projects. It also covers an appreciation of the 'scientific method', key issues in the scientific workplace, including safety, ethics and intellectual property, and it develops teamwork and communication skills. Students are exposed to recent advances in current and emerging research areas through seminars and journal club presentations. The unit is only available to Bachelor of Science Advanced (with Honours) and Bachelor of Science (Science Scholar Program) students, and to students in the Dean's List, or by invitation of the Faculty of Science.

Outcomes

On completion of this unit students should be able to:

1. outline how scientific research is conducted, funded and communicated, including discussion of ethical considerations;
2. understand the importance of the scientific method in research and be aware of key historical steps in its origin;
3. conceptualise a research question on an open scientific topic and address that question by accessing and analysing information sourced from primary scientific literature;
4. discuss the purposes of, and methods behind, effective science communication and identify how approaches can be adapted for different audiences, including peers, granting agencies, policy makers, managers and the wider community;
5. present scientific information in a variety of formats, including spoken and poster presentations.

Assessment

Examination (2 hours): 30%
Project: 50%
Workshop tasks: 20%
The project consists of several parts including a project proposal, a scientific literature review, conference presentations and a media release. Workshop tasks include a presentation on a recent scientific paper (journal club), a written peer review report, group work and participation. Students must pass the project component to pass the unit overall.

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Roslyn Gleadow

Contact hours

One 1-hour lecture per week and one 2-hour tutorial per week

Prohibitions

SCI2010