LSO322 - The Five Greatest Ideas in Science

Subject Title
The Five Greatest Ideas in Science

Subject Description

This course introduces the learner to the most significant theories of the five fundamental natural sciences. The physical sciences are represented by the atomic theory in physics, the Big Bang theory in astronomy, and the tectonic plates theory in geology. A major breakthrough in chemistry, the discovery of the periodic law of elements, is considered next. Biology's theory of evolution and the fascinating topic of the origin of life on Earth conclude the course. People began their quest to understand nature thousands of years ago. Science and its method, however, are relatively recent - only a few hundred years old. In this course, you will learn how these five fundamental theories developed from basic ideas to scientific theories, supported by firm observational and experimental evidence. Students will further relate the ideas to practical applications and evaluate their risks and benefits.

Credit Status
One upper-level Liberal Studies Option in the Sciences category. 

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:
1. Summarize historical developments and major contemporary ideas from five natural sciences:
a) The atomic structure of matter (Physics)
b) The Periodic Law (Chemistry)
c) The Big Bang theory (Astronomy)   d) The Plate Tectonics Theory (Geology)    e) The Theory of Evolution (Biology) 
2. Understand the scientific method and how its use in exploring the laws of nature.
3. Summarize the implications of these major ideas from natural sciences for technology, and discuss specific examples.
4. Analyze the contribution of science and technology to the development of our civilization.
5. Participate in the contemporary debate on the benefits/risk analysis of applications of scientific knowledge in the society

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Use a variety of thinking skills to anticipate and solve problems.

    •  Analyze, evaluate, and apply relevant information from a variety of sources.

    •  Show respect for diverse opinions, values, belief systems, and contributions of others.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.