Are you ever frustrated by the level of science literacy among the public, especially as it impacts policy decisions or general wellbeing? As a student and consumer of science, do you wish for more substantive explanations of science topics in the popular press or, conversely, do you often find such explanations too complex or irrelevant? Do you ever struggle to explain science concepts to family and friends in a way that is both interesting and engaging but also not too complicated? This FIG will consider how science stories and information are presented by mainstream, popular, and social media, emphasizing how scientific knowledge and issues can be most effectively communicated to nonscientists. Students will have the opportunity not only to consider and discuss these topics but also to complete a creative project to present a STEM topic of their choice to an audience of their choice using, for example, a children’s book, coloring book, pamphlet, or video.
Note: Spaces in this FIG will not be available until IntroDUCKtion. Each IntroDUCKtion session will have spaces available. You must see an academic advisor before adding a chemistry FIG.
Students explore the intersection of topics by taking the following course package:
UGST 109 First-Year Experience Seminar - 1-credit
Students then also will be in one of the following combos:
MATH 111 College Algebra - CoreEd or major satisfying course, 4-credits
This course begins by building familiarity with functions, including notation and the rate of change in a function. Linear functions, including lines of best fit, are discussed. Evaluation, identifying domain and range, and the basics of composition and inversion of functions follow. Quadratic and polynomial functions are introduced along with roots and extrema of quadratic functions. Exponential and logarithmic models are discussed with a focus on applications. Finally, transformations of functions are covered. College algebra is a calculus preparation course and as such has a strong algebraic focus.
CH 111 Introduction to Chemical Principles - CoreEd or major satisfying course, 4-credits
This course familiarizes students with the foundational concepts and models of modern chemistry while emphasizing problem solving and critical thinking skills that will support students' success as they continue their studies. Fundamental mathematical techniques and skills are incorporated to illustrate the quantitative aspects of chemistry and to develop student ability to model quantitative systems.
OR
CH 221 General Chemistry - CoreEd or major satisfying course, 4-credits
Chemistry is the study of matter and the changes that it undergoes. It is a science that is central to our understanding of the natural world and it serves as a foundation for all other scientific disciplines. The General Chemistry sequence, beginning with CH 221, is designed for science majors and pre-professional students, and provides an introduction to the experimental and theoretical foundations of chemistry. Students will gain factual knowledge about the terminology and language of chemistry as well as an understanding of the underlying reasons why chemical processes occur. They will be expected to interpret, reason and problem solve using fundamental chemical principles.
CH 227 General Chemistry Lab - CoreEd or major satisfying course, 2-credits
Introduces chemistry laboratory techniques, including volume and mass measurement, use of the pipette and burette, and gravimetric thermochemical measurements. Required for students in the natural sciences or for those preparing to enter one of the medical sciences.