Skills for the Scientist

    Unit code: NSC1210 | Study level: Undergraduate
    Credit points
    12
    (Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
    Location
    Footscray Park
    Prerequisites
    N/A
    Overview
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    Overview

    Skills for the Scientist will develop a set of fundamental skills that are required to navigate through all stages of the scientific process. The unit will explore the history and philosophy of science, leading to an understanding of the current approach to scientific thinking. Students will become familiar with accessing library resources, including popular science databases, and will learn the accepted referencing practices for the sciences. Methods will be taught for the management and interpretation of data, leading to the development of written and oral communication skills. Safe and ethical work practices in the laboratory and field will be discussed.

    Learning Outcomes

    On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

    1. Apply the principles of the scientific method to real world problems;
    2. Locate, synthesise and cite/reference scientific literature;
    3. Manage scientific data, perform data manipulations and produce scientifically acceptable written and graphic outputs;
    4. Create scientific documents and work collaboratively to develop presentations;

    Study as a single unit

    This unit can be studied on its own, without enrolling in a full degree.

    Learn more about single units of study at VU

    Assessment

    For Melbourne campuses

    Assessment type: Exercise
    |
    Grade: 10%
    Analysis of scientific paper
    Assessment type: Assignment
    |
    Grade: 15%
    Initial data submission
    Assessment type: Assignment
    |
    Grade: 15%
    Manage and present scientific data
    Assessment type: Test
    |
    Grade: 20%
    Test
    Assessment type: Presentation
    |
    Grade: 40%
    Group oral presentation.

    Required reading

    Scientific Writing = Thinking in Words
    Lindsay, D.R. (2011)| Collingwood, Victoria, Australia, CSIRO
    Scientific Method: A Historical and Philosophical Introduction
    Bower, G.S. (2012)| London, Routledge

    As part of a course

    This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

    Bachelor of Science
    NBSC | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years

    Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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