Science

Classes

SCI 110 : Science vs Pseudoscience

Every day the public is faced with news of new scientific findings that have a great impact on our lives and health - from the latest causes of cancer to the dire predictions of climate science. This course is aimed at Sustainability majors and non-science majors, to help them gain an understanding of how science is done. Topics will include the peer review process, common experimental designs, the importance of sample size, interpreting graphs and statistics, and the role of the media in conveying science. This course will provide students with the tools to help them critically evaluate science in the news. Three lecture hours per week. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

3
After completion of this course, students should be able to: 1. Explain the basic features of the scientific process - such as peer review, hypothesis generation, and controlled experimentation. 2. Critically read and evaluate secondary sources of science news. 3. Distinguish between science and pseudoscience based on criteria relating to the process of science.

SCI 112 : Principles of Ecology

An introduction to basic principles of ecology. The interaction of abiotic and biotic components of ecosystems are discussed as well as the effects of human intervention. Some labs are field trips. Three lecture hours and two laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
1. Apply the scientific method to a variety of ecosystem-based problems, including both observational and experimental science, and incorporate the fundamental elements of experimental design. 2. Explain the significance of fundamental ecological concepts related to water and matter cycling, community ecology, population dynamics, ecological succession, and evolution. 3. Critically evaluate a variety of environmental problems and proposed solutions, including resource limitation, pollution, food shortages, and loss of biodiversity. 4. Explain the basic causes and mechanisms of global climate change, what is known, what is unknown, and how scientists are approaching the problem.

SCI 113 : Physical Science

This lab science course for non-science majors provides a foundational understanding of the physical sciences such as physics, chemistry, and earth and space sciences. Topics covered include matter and energy, electricity and electromagnetic behavior, chemical bonds and reactions, force and motion, the Earth’s geological and atmospheric processes, the formation of our Universe and its contents, important scientific laws and principles associated with any of these topics, and the underlying importance of the atom and its role in the many physical laws of nature. Students apply the scientific method and learn proper laboratory procedures and safety. No prior science background is required, but some high school level algebra and mathematics are recommended. Prerequisite(s): Introductory Algebra competency or high-school algebra. Three class-hours and two laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. General Ed. Competencies met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery. 

Credits

4

1. Identify the core principles in Physics, Chemistry, and Earth and Space science. 2. Apply the scientific method to conduct experiments and investigations, collect data, and interpret results in a laboratory setting. 3. Determine whether a hypothesis is testable. 4. Recognize the real-world applications of physical science concepts and explain the relevance of these principles in everyday life. 5. Develop problem-solving skills and utilize critical thinking to understand and explain scientific phenomena. 6. Communicate scientific ideas effectively, using appropriate terminology. 7. Discuss the interdisciplinary nature of science and its impact on the understanding of the natural world. 8. Interpret and discuss current issues and developments in the physical sciences, demonstrating an awareness of science as a dynamic field of study. 9. Foster a curiosity and lifelong learning attitude towards science and the world around them.

SCI 115 : Science and Care of Plants

This course is an introduction to the basic principles of plant science (structure, function, growth requirements, etc.) as a basis for consideration of topics of greater practical interest (e.g., horticultural techniques, uses of plants, identifying plants, landscaping). Three lecture hours and two laboratory hour per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
1. Apply the scientific method to address observations and problems. 2. Identify and describe the common uses of plants by people. 3. Describe biological systematics and taxonomic organization of plants. 4. Compare and contrast the major families of cultivated plants, utilizing dichotomous keys and other tools in plant identification. 5. Describe, and illustrate the gross and microscopic morphological structures of plants. 6. Classify and describe the different kinds of flowers, fruits, and seeds. 7. Explain the physiology of plants, including reproduction, photosynthesis and cellular respiration. 8. Conduct and interpret physical and chemical soil analysis and apply the principles of soil science to plant production.

SCI 116 : Science, Technology, and Society: The Chemistry of Hazardous Toxic Materials

This course explores the theories and fundamentals of how and why fires start, spread and are controlled. The course includes an examination of the chemical requirements for combustion, the chemistry of fuels and explosive mixtures. Also, the various methods of stopping combustion, and an analysis of the properties affecting fire behavior. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. (FESHE Approved) Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
  1. Identify physical properties of three states of matter.
  2. Categorize the components of a fire.
  3. Explain the chemical and physical properties of fire.
  4. Describe and apply the process of burning by explaining the fundamental theories of fire behavior and combustion.
  5. Define and use the basic terms and concepts associated with the chemistry and dynamics of fire.
  6. Discuss various materials and their relationship to fires as fuel.
  7. Demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of water as an agent for suppressing fire.
  8. Articulate the differences between the various types of extinguishing agents.
  9. Compare other agents and strategies that can be used for fire suppression.

SCI 117 : History and Philosophy of Science

A survey of the philosophical, political, economic and social underpinnings of science since ancient times. The major focus of the course is on the period since the sixteenth century and on the conceptual framework within which scientists in each age have had to work. Three lecture hours per week. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Global and Historic Awareness and Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

3
  1. Describe science as a method for knowing about the world, and distinguish between speculation, hypotheses, and theories.
  2. Evaluate scientific discoveries and views of science within the context of historical time periods, cultural developments, and political climates.
  3. Explain what is meant by “paradigm” and “paradigm shift” in the context of science and scientific revolutions.
  4. Summarize the contributions to science made by “non-scientists” and scientists throughout history.
5. Explain the development of scientific inquiry and discoveries as collaborative and cumulative efforts.

SCI 119 : Coastal Science

An overview of the physical and biological structure of our southern New England coastline and the factors, including humans, which act on it. Particular emphasis will be given to consideration of the processes which shape the shoreline and to the biology and ecology of the most significant organisms of coastal communities such as salt marshes, sand dunes, rock shores and beaches. There will be several field trips to study local examples of the features and communities discussed. Prerequisite: One year of high school laboratory science or one semester of college laboratory science. Three lecture hours and three laboratory hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
  1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the geology and ecology of the coastal environment with specific reference to the coastal zone of Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island.
  2. Contrast and compare the roles of Plate Tectonics and Glaciation as forces that have shaped the geology of coastal New England; distinguish the relative time scales of these two processes.
  3. Describe how the coast of New England has been, and continues to be modified by waves and tidal processes, changing the topography left behind by the Pleistocene glaciers.
  4. Compare and contrast the various ecological habitats that are common in coastal New England, such as beaches and dunes, rocky shores, mud flats, estuaries and saltmarshes with respect to physical and chemical conditions, and with respect to the types of species found in each habitat.
  5. Distinguish among the major groups of living organisms found in coastal New England, and use proper scientific terminology to place them into correct categories.
6. Analyze data and conclusions in library and internet resources related to the Coastal Zone, and compile summaries of those resources.

SCI 125 : Social and Ethical Issues in Science, Technology, and Health Science

This course will explore the ethical and social issues that scientists encounter during the process of scientific investigation. This course covers topics from many scientific disciplines, including biology, medicine, physics, and astronomy. Students are exposed to the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary scientific investigation and to the ethical dilemmas that can arise when scientific advances have ambiguous implications for improving the quality of life. Class sessions emphasize student discussions and use case studies and written assignments as a format for promoting critical discussions of complex topics. Participation in this course will encourage the student to develop his/her own ethical views regarding science and technology, and will foster awareness of multiple perspectives on ethical issues in the sciences and on the role of scientific integrity in research. Three lecture hours per week. Instructional Support Fee applies.

Credits

3
After successful completion of this course, students should be ale to: 1. Develop ethical reasoning skills. 2. Identify instances of scientific misconduct and the appropriate consequences. 3. Demonstrate appropriate scientific record keeping and understand its importance. 4. Discuss scientific authorship and the peer review process. 5. Understand and identify conflicts of interest. 6. Discuss the use of and ethical issues surrounding humans and animals in research. 7. Engage in informed discussions about current topics in all areas of natural science.

SCI 240 : Introduction to Oceanography

This course is a study of the inter-relationships among geological, chemical, physical, and biological processes and systems in the world's oceans. Emphasis is placed on methods of the collection of oceanographic data as well as its interpretation and significance to the current world problems, including global climate change. The course is designed for students with a strong interest in the marine environment who have some preliminary background in one of the traditional areas of environmental science, namely biology, chemistry, or geology. Although the course does not require advanced mathematical skills, lab exercises may require simple computations, graphing, and map reading. Prerequisite: One semester of a college-level laboratory science with a grade of C or better, or completion of CHM 090 with a grade of B or better, or permission of the instructor. Three hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory per week. Instructional Support Fee applies. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

4
  1. Compare and contrast the interactions among the Earth’s hydrosphere, atmosphere, geosphere and biosphere with respect to sources and sinks of gases, heat exchange, and the cycles of nutrients important to living organisms.
  2. Compare and contrast the roles of plate tectonics, weathering and erosion on the shape and position of the continental masses and ocean basins with respect to the relative time scales and overall significance of each of these processes.
  3. Summarize the overall contributions of surface currents and the thermohaline circulation to the distribution of salinity and temperature on a worldwide basis.
  4. Evaluate the role of living organisms in the biosphere as contributors to the chemical nature of seawater, and explain their role in the recycling of gases and nutrients.
  5. Predict how the Oceans may play an integral role in moderating climate change caused by the actions of natural forces and the specific actions of humans, as well as how climate change may lead to significant alterations in the size and shape of the ocean basins and the chemistry of seawater.
6. Compile scientific reports that demonstrate proper use of internet and library sources, as well as application of the scientific method to oceanographic data.

SCI 251 : Moments of Revolutionary Discovery

How does your own memory mislead you? Will AI save us or destroy us? Is it ethical to try to find a cure for death? These are just a few questions that illustrate that we are living in a time of great scientific discovery and rapid social change. This multidisciplinary discussion-based seminar focuses on different topics each week, and challenges students to engage with material in ways that depart from the typical classroom experience. Join us to explore these questions, expand your mind, and challenge your preconceived notions. Three lecture hours per week. Prerequisite: Open to Commonwealth Honors Program students only. Gen. Ed. Competencies Met: Critical Thinking and Scientific Reasoning and Discovery.

Credits

3
1. Explain radical discoveries of modern science and their consequences for our current worldview. 2. Apply strategies of critical thinking to cutting edge scientific theories. 3. Analyze new ways of living that are emerging at the forefront of our culture. 4. Evaluate the ethical implications of these paradigm shifts for society.