Learning objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- place scientific knowledge in the intellectual context where it is developed;
- know and understand moral principles inspiring science;
- reflect critically about science and its role in contemporary society;
- think and develop interventions aimed at spreading understanding on the foundations of science.
Prerequisites
None
Course unit content
The course will discuss some of the main questions related to the role and perception of science in our society. More specifically, we will focus and discuss the process of scientific research, principles behind ethical codes of conduct for researchers and critical issues in contemporary scientific research. We will also discuss ideas on ethics and morality to support reflection on science. Lastly, the course will focus on the role that educational psychology may play in the relation between science and society, with attention to some of its most relevant constructs and methodologies.
Full programme
The course will be about:
- how scientific knowledge is made
- principles inspiring scientific research
- ethical and moral models to critically think about science
- limits of the current scientific community
- the role of educational psychology in spreading the understanding of scientific knowledge
Bibliography
Didactic materials (partly in English) will be provided during the course and shared on the platform Elly.
Teaching methods
The course will be given in presence, in observance of the norms for safety, unless the persistence of the pandemic will require further dispositions. The lessons will be based on the active discussion of materials and practical activities. Slides, other didactic materials, and useful information will be posted on the platform Elly shortly before or after class. Students are encouraged to frequently check the platform for new information.
Assessment methods and criteria
The exam will consist of a written and oral component. For the written part, students will be required to prepare a written assignment (length 3-5 pages, Times New Roman 12, line spacing 1.5, regular margins) to be submitted prior to the exam day. The written text will be evaluated on personal elaboration, use of sources and clarity of exposition (more detailed information will be given during the course). On the day of the exam an oral interview will be conducted on the topics discussed in the written assignment and during the course to confirm the evaluation.
Other information
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