Abstract
o engage honors students in understanding the role of scientists as authors and savants, they study relevant writings and media by scientist/authors. Books were chosen based on the influential impact and stature of the author: Silent Spring (Rachel Carson), The Dragons of Eden (Carl Sagan) and A Brief History of Time (Stephen Hawkings). Students additionally read from a text book, The Sciences, An Integrated Approach (Trefil and Hazen, Wiley. 2007). Course sections using external readings were compared to sections using only a traditional text book. Assessment was based on a standard final exam and an end of course evaluation survey. Results indicate that student's performance increased when exposed to this. Post-study evaluation indicates positive student perceptions as well. Attendees are encouraged to discuss experiences and applications in other courses. Other potential readings and media will be discussed as well as methods to embed assessment in measurable coursework.
Location
Room 2904
Recommended Citation
Arnold, Thomas and Ondrovic, Leo, "Incorporating Media in Science Courses Enhances Learning" (2009). SoTL Commons Conference. 98.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/sotlcommons/SoTL/2009/98
Incorporating Media in Science Courses Enhances Learning
Room 2904
o engage honors students in understanding the role of scientists as authors and savants, they study relevant writings and media by scientist/authors. Books were chosen based on the influential impact and stature of the author: Silent Spring (Rachel Carson), The Dragons of Eden (Carl Sagan) and A Brief History of Time (Stephen Hawkings). Students additionally read from a text book, The Sciences, An Integrated Approach (Trefil and Hazen, Wiley. 2007). Course sections using external readings were compared to sections using only a traditional text book. Assessment was based on a standard final exam and an end of course evaluation survey. Results indicate that student's performance increased when exposed to this. Post-study evaluation indicates positive student perceptions as well. Attendees are encouraged to discuss experiences and applications in other courses. Other potential readings and media will be discussed as well as methods to embed assessment in measurable coursework.
