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Module Specifications

Archived Version 2009 - 2010

Module Title Science & Society
Module Code CM582
School School of Communications

Online Module Resources

Module Co-ordinatorMr Brian TrenchOffice Number
Level 5 Credit Rating 10
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Module Aims
To explore various perspectives on the position of science within society, as investigated in the disciplines of history, sociology, political science and communicationsq To examine the increasingly important position of science in advanced economies, particularly Ireland, and how science is harnessed to political and economic goalsq To analyse how discussions and disagreements about science are played out in the public arena

Learning Outcomes
Students will have developed a critical awareness of the social contexts in which scientific knowledge is produced and applied

Indicative Time Allowances
Hours
Lectures 24
Tutorials
Laboratories
Seminars 12
Independent Learning Time 114

Total 150
Placements
Assignments
NOTE
Assume that a 10 credit module load represents approximately 150 hours' work, which includes all teaching, in-course assignments, laboratory work or other specialised training and an estimated private learning time associated with the module.

Indicative Syllabus
Science and Society: basic terms and issues Scientists' social role - in their own view Science policy: the Irish case in context Organisation of science Lives of scientists Science and humanities: two cultures? Science and Art Science culture and religion in Ireland Moments in history of science Science controversies and public participation
Assessment
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Indicative Reading List
M. Bucchi: Science in Society  introduction to social studies of science (Routledge, 2004)J. Gregory and S. Miller: Science in Public  communication, culture and credibility (Plenum Trade, 1998, and Perseus Books, paperback, 2000)H. M. Collins and T. Pinch: The Golem: What You Should Know About Science (Cambridge University Press, 2nd edition, 1998)T. Gilland, S. Mayer at al: Science: Can We Trust the Experts? (Hodder and Stoughton, 2002)S. J. Gould: The Hedgehog, the Fox and the Magisters Pox  mending and minding the misconceived gap between science and the humanities (Jonathan Cape, 2003)H. Nowotny, P. Scott and M. Gibbons: Re-Thinking Science  knowledge and the public in age of uncertainty (Polity Press, 2001)N. Whyte: Science, Colonialism and Ireland (Cork University Press, 1999)
TEACHING METHODS:    Lectures and student-led seminars Assessment: Position paper: proposal to policy-makers on current scientific topic Minor essay: review of academic papers Major essay: discussion of topical science-and-society issues          
Programme or List of Programmes
MSCM.Sc. in Science Communication
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