This module is meant to continue content emphasized in the Academic Horizons block, acclimating students to the the details- and methods-oriented nature of scientific inquiry, By presenting students with different examples of the many ways in which diverse methologies can be applied to solve real-world problems, this module aims to reinforce the critical importance of understanding and discussing, in the English language, proper application of the scientific method and the central roles that creativity, innovation, and interdisciplinary approaches play in that application, helping to support the “academic communication and literacy” and “foundational academic capability” learning outcomes of the new Year 1 Curriculum Framework. A parallel emphasis on personal stories from Module Examiners are meant to help offer inlets of connection and support for students struggling with learning challenges by encouraging the sharing of vulnerabilities and potential solutions to foster a faciliated community of learning concept, in line with the “self-management and learning ownership” and “informed progression and academic readiness” learning outcomes of the new Year 1 Curriculum Framework. To this effect, this module has the following three specific aims: 1. Familiarize students with selected research methods in different areas of science such as biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences. 2. Help students connect their understanding of the above methods to recent advances and current trends in science knowledge and application. 3. Give students the opportunity to conceptualize their concerns about studying science in an English-language environment and learn about potential solutions by listening to stories about the past experiences of their professors.
A Recognize and explain selected research methods used in different areas of science such as biology, chemistry, and environmental sciences. B Identify and summarize the relevance of the above research methods in shaping recent advances and current trends in science knowledge and application. C Describe personal concerns about studying science in an English-language environment and use stories about the past experiences of professors to articulate potential solutions.
Each 2-hour class session will consist of a seminar containing three key components: 1) an explanation of a selected research method that has made or is currently making a significant impact in a specific scientific field (e.g., biology, chemistry, etc.); 2) descriptions of how said method has significantly expanded on science knowledge or applications; and 3) a personal story from the Module Examiner describing how they overcame specific learning obstacles when they themselves were a student. The first two components are meant to familiarize Students with different areas of study represented in the Academy of Life and Natural Sciences, helping prepare them for pathway-specific studies, while the third component is meant to encourage Students to think about their own learning challenges and consider new ways to potentially solve or plan solutions to those concerns. The In-semester Exam will cover material revealed in the first half of the semester while the Final Exam will cover material revealed in the latter half of the semester. The Written Reflection will consist of two parts: 1) a confidential essay written at the start of the semester through which each Student describes their own concerns about learning science in an English-language environment and 2) an essay written at the end of the semester through which each Student describes how the personal stories told by Module Examiners have or have not helped them resolve or plan solutions to these concerns.