Unit name | Ethical Issues in Science Education |
---|---|
Unit code | EDUCM4006 |
Credit points | 20 |
Level of study | M/7 |
Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24) |
Unit director | Dr. Ingram |
Open unit status | Not open |
Pre-requisites |
EDUCM4000 |
Co-requisites |
None |
School/department | School of Education |
Faculty | Faculty of Social Sciences and Law |
In this unit, an understanding of the main theories of ethics will arise from a consideration of the nature of science. We will consider how ethics and values intersect with science. Following on from the Teaching, Learning and Assessment unit, we will look critically at the myth and reality of the scientific method, and how this impacts on learners of science in a range of educational contexts. Reflection upon ethics in science education will lead to a consideration of the pedagogy of teaching ethical dimensions of science and their relevance beyond education.
Aims:
The teaching strategy will employ three broad approaches, where appropriate, with the aims of contextualising as well as theorising issues of central importance, the development of student autonomy, and the individualisation of study and support. These are:
Face to Face Teaching Examples here include large and small group teaching methods, including presentations from staff and experienced professionals, debates, case study analyses, student presentations and practical workshops.
ELearning ELearning approaches will be used to facilitate individualised study and support within the broad parameters of the units and programme. These will include: on-line discussion (with individuals and groups, online supervision and peer mentoring, guidance and feedback. Critical use of Web resources will be encouraged.
Research Where appropriate, for example in order to provide data for analysis or to support a dissertation study, the use of action research, small-scale empirical studies and observations of professional practice will be encouraged and facilitated.
EITHER:
Production of teaching and learning materials to incorporate ethical issues into a science scheme of work.
OR:
A written assignment to critically explore issues about the nature of science or ethical issues in a scientific topic, considering the implications for science education.
and:
Review of a novel or biography or website about science: the review must examine ethical or philosophical issues for professional scientists raised in the book.
To total 4,000 words or equivalent and include a bibliography.