Instruction offered under the direction of the聽Department of Communication, Media, and Film Studies in the Faculty of Arts.聽
Junior Course
Science, Technology and Society 201
Introduction to Science, Technology and Society
An introduction to the roles, uses, and impacts of science and technology within society. Using an inquiry-based approach, students will investigate topics such as the scientific method, gender and technology, the role of experts in policy matters, and public engagement with science and technology.
Examines the definition of technology and major questions concerning the relations between technology and society Course Hours:3 units; H(2-1) Notes:This course may not be offered every year.
A case study analysis of the practice of science as a human activity. The theories linking the emergence of modern science to western culture are considered. An analysis of ideas of the social structure of scientific activity including: the role of examples in forming scientific theories, the value system of scientists in both basic research and applied research environments, "individual genius" vs multiple discovery, and the influence of "leading" figures. The linkages of scientific activity with other cultural dimensions are explored and the bases for formulation of "science policy" are considered. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Notes:This course may not be offered every year.
A study of the implications of information technology for political, social and economic organization, individual psychology, and concepts of knowledge. Historical, ethical and legal implications will be discussed. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Antirequisite(s):Credit for Science, Technology and Society 341 and any of Communications Studies 203 or 380 or General Studies 341 will not be allowed. Notes:This course assumes only very basic familiarity with computers at the "user" level. Familiarization with more advanced applications will be provided as required.
Canadian Science Policy and Technology Development
Examination and analysis of Canadian science policy and technology development. Factors which influence policies and strategies, and factors which should influence them. Evaluation of success and failures through case studies and policy analysis. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0)
An examination of selected topics in Science, Technology and Society. See Schedule of Classes for current topic(s). Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
Examines how science and concerns over science have been 'made public' via emergent forms of media including novels, radio, television, film, and the Internet, and how various publics have enabled scientific transformations. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Prerequisite(s):48 units (6.0 full-course equivalents). Antirequisite(s):Credit for Science, Technology and Society 421 and Communication and Media 393 will not be allowed.
Examines the relationship between politics and technology, and how these shape and structure everyday life. Particular attention will be paid to the ways in which decisions about science and technology fit or do not fit with democratic ideals. Sample topics include democracy and technology; technologies as forms of governance; use of new media in politics; online activism; and politicization of science. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Prerequisite(s):48 units (8.0 full-course equivalents). Antirequisite(s):Credit for Science, Technology and Society 423 and 401.03 will not be allowed.
Supervised individual study of a special topic. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Prerequisite(s):Consent of the Department. Notes:Students should contact the Department at least two weeks prior to the first day of classes to arrange an independent study course. MAY BE REPEATED FOR CREDIT
Topics in the formulation of science, technology, and/or innovation policy. The knowledge that shapes government, industry and public perceptions of science and technology issues, and how that knowledge is produced, interpreted and absorbed by the policy-making process. Intended for senior students in the Science, Technology and Society major or minor, or students with appropriate course preparation in related disciplines such as economics or political science.
Course Hours:3 units; H(3S-0) Prerequisite(s):9 units (1.5 full-course equivalents) in Science, Technology and Society at the 300 level or higher. Antirequisite(s):Credit for Science, Technology and Society 505 and 401.02 will not be allowed.
An integrative seminar on the central themes of science and technology studies. Course Hours:3 units; H(3-0) Prerequisite(s):Two of Science, Technology and Society 325, History 477, Philosophy 367, Sociology 435. Notes:This course may not be offered every year. It may be taken as a reading course if an instructor is available.
COURSES OF INSTRUCTION