Introduction to Non-Fiction: Science as A Social Activity
3.0
creditsAverage Course Rating
Using the political and economic milieu of science and technology as a context for our writing, we will study how social factors such as government, money, secrecy, and ethics affect the conduct and public presentation of scientific and medical research. Controversies from 20th century history as well as current events will be discussed. Writing assignments to satisfy the W requirement will consist of short papers derived from classroom topics.
Fall 2014
Professor: Wayne Biddle
Students praised this course for the creative freedom it gave them and for having subject matter that integrated a variety of other topics and disciplines. Perceived issues with the course varied; most students had a general complaint that the course could be better structured with some students believing there should be more time in between when an assignment was given and when it was due. In 312addition, multiple students felt the assignments, in general, tended to be vague. Suggestions for improvement included the desire of multiple students for both additional time to write assignments and additional opportunities for discussion and feedback on their writing. Prospective students should know that students found that those coming into this course should be prepared to read and write a lot and that that the course thrives when students participate.