The Vocabulary of Science: First Steps to Science Literacy

🧬 The Vocabulary of Science: First Steps to Science Literacy

WHAT IS THIS COURSE ABOUT?

Is evolution a theory, a fact, or both? This is a question that has sparked debate among scientists, educators, and the general public. In this course, we'll navigate through these discussions by demystifying the language commonly used in scientific discourse.

Some claim that evolution is a theory, not a fact. Others assert that evolution is a fact, not a theory. And there are those who say that evolution is both a theory and a fact. So, what exactly is going on here? One reason why such debates persist is that people often disagree not only on the strength of the evidence for evolution but also on the meanings of the key terms: “theory”, “fact”, “law”, “hypothesis” and “model”.

This course is designed to help you understand and think critically about such debates. It will guide you through the nuances and complexities of scientific terminology, equipping you with the knowledge to engage with scientific discussions confidently and effectively.

ABOUT YOUR INSTRUCTOR

Kevin deLaplante, your course instructor, brings 20 years of experience teaching the history and philosophy of science at the university level. Now an independent online educator, Kevin has a passion for making science accessible and understandable to all. His engaging lectures on science literacy have reached national and international audiences, and his expertise has helped over 30,000 students on Udemy enhance their critical thinking skills through his courses on critical thinking and argumentative essay writing.

WHO IS THIS COURSE FOR, AND WHAT WILL YOU LEARN?

This course is tailored for anyone interested in deepening their understanding of how a philosopher of science thinks about science and scientific reasoning. It will be particularly valuable for:

• Science students at any level who wish to improve their grasp of scientific concepts.
• Science educators looking for new ways to clarify scientific terminology for their students.
• Individuals curious about the nature of scientific debate and the role of language in science.

In this course, you will:

• Learn the precise meanings of scientific terms such as “theory”, “fact”, “law”, “hypothesis” and “model” both within the context of science and in everyday usage.
• Understand the most common confusions that people make when discussing scientific matters, especially around the term "theory".
• Apply your new knowledge through interactive quizzes to test your comprehension.
• Submit a video critique assignment where you'll have the opportunity to receive feedback and further refine your understanding of scientific language and reasoning.

Join us on this journey to become more science literate and empower yourself with the critical thinking skills needed to engage with the world of science confidently. 📚✍️🤔