LAEC 6317

FALL 2009

Instructor

Dr. Richard L. Kopec
Email: kopec-at-stedwards.edu
written incorrectly to discourage SPAM
http://faculty.stedwards.edu/kopec/

André Hall 221
Phone: 448-8464

Office Hours

MW 2:00-3:30 PM, TR 9:30-10:30 AM
Other times by appointment only. Please email or call.

Textbooks

The Structure of Scientific Revolutions, 3rd Edition, Kuhn, University of Chicago Press
World Views, Dewitt, Blackwell Publishing

Prerequisite(s)

Graduate student status

Class Meeting

TR 2-3:15 PM in MH 208

Course Objectives

To learn the distinguishing characteristics of science and pseudoscience, to understand the nature of scientific revolutions, to learn about the historical development of science and the basics of the philosophy of science.

Course Content

The course is composed of three parts. In the first section there is a discussion of what is meant by science, its characteristics, and how science is distinguished from pathological science and pseudoscience, plus a brief overview of philosophical concepts as applied to scientific inquiry. The second section covers the historical development of science from prehistoric man to quantum mechanics loosely based on Dewitt's World Views and the class notes. The third section is concerned with a philosophical treatment of the nature and operation of science based on Kuhn's The Structure of Scientific Revolutions and the Dewitt text.

Homework

1. Two papers are required. The topic for each paper and the criteria for grading can be found at the course web site. Late papers will NOT be accepted.
2. Two 20-25 minute oral presentations to the class are required, complete with powerpoint slides. The instructor will provide presentation topics.

Examinations

Three in-class examinations are planned. A comprehensive final examination is scheduled for Monday May 4 (Sec 2) from 11:15-1:15 PM and Tuesday December 8 from 1:30-3:30 PM.

Grading

Exams 60% (@ 15%, including the final)
Papers 18% (@ 9%)
Presentations 18% (@ 9%)
Class Participation 4%

Reading

Most of the material in your textbooks will be covered as time permits. See lecture schedule for details. This schedule is tentative and may be adjusted in accordance with the needs and desires of the class. It is essential that reading assignments be completed before the corresponding lecture.

Academic Honesty

At all times it is expected that the work you do and the tests you take represent only your efforts, not a group of peers, hired tutors, or plagiarized material. In its broadest sense, academic dishonesty is defined as representing some other person's work as you own. When evidence of academic dishonesty exists, all those involved may receive an "F" for the course. See Course Policy Sheet for further information.

Attendance

Regular attendance is necessary to be successful in this course. However you are all mature and experienced students and I have no intention of keeping attendance records. If a test or presentation is missed, a grade of zero for that work will ordinarily be assigned. Exceptions to this policy can be made only for truly unavoidable circumstances, and ordinarily prior to the absence. If you know in advance that you must miss class, it is up to you to make alternate arrangements with your instructor if an exam or presentation is scheduled that day. Note that all students will evaluate all oral presentations except their own, and you earn credit for doing so - and lose credit for not doing so.

Academic Support

Academic Planning and Support Services staff members want to help all students to perform to the best of their ability academically. To assist students in their efforts, individual academic counseling appointments are available with staff members. These meetings can allow for discussion of the structured academic skills training in such topics as time management, reading skills, goal setting, test preparation, etc. All St. Edward's students are encouraged to utilize these appointments through their entire college career. By doing so, you are increasing your chances of doing well not only in this course, but in your overall experience here at the University. To make an appointment, call APSS at 448-8660 or stop by Moody Hall 155.

Learning Considerations

If you have a learning disability of any sort and require accommodations in this class, please let me know as soon as you are eligible. You will need to provide documentation of your disability to the Student Disability Services Office located in the office of Academic Planning and Support, who will then provide you with documentation to give to me. Note that special arrangements must be negotiated - they are not automatic or carte blanche.

Drop Deadlines

Saturday, September 12, 2009 with no record
Thursday, November 5, 2009 with a "W"