Terms: Autumn and Spring
Duration: 20 hours
Course Description
The aim of this module is to provide an overview of science and technology in the German-speaking countries. This module will introduce students to German scientific discoveries that have had a major impact in the fields of chemistry, physics and biology particularly from the 19th century to the present day alongside the main technical and industrial developments that have occurred in Germany, Austria or Switzerland since the middle of the 19th century. The development of technical education and of the main research institutions in German-speaking countries will also be discussed.
By the end of the course students will have acquired a clear understanding and knowledge of the various events, processes and ideas that have governed the scientific research and culture in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and have led to its present technological and industrial developments.
History of Science (Germany)
On completion of this module, you will be better prepared able to:
Identify and understand the various events, processes and ideas that have governed the scientific research and culture in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and have led to its present technological and industrial developments. You will be able to conduct independent research on matters relating to science and technology in the relevant countries using resources in the target language, and to present, discuss and defend your research findings. In addition, you will be able to construct a sophisticated argument and to participate in debates demonstrating control of relevant subject-specific linguistic features at the appropriate level (Horizons level 4 or 5) and following relevant academic conventions.
The History of Science module is taught through a weekly seminar session where you will have the chance to review, analyse and discuss key events and developments, aided with set texts or class notes. You will need to do some preparation for sessions (e.g. at-home reading) so that, during seminars, you can respond to discussions, interact with your teacher and peers, present your own perspective, and ask questions. In term 2, guest speakers will be invited from research and industry.
Seminars will give you an opportunity to start defining your research topic in preparation for the summative assessment.
- 1-hour exam on the virtual learning environment at the end of term 1 consisting of short answers on 2 out of 3 topics (min. 150 words each)
- Independent research project (4000 words) to be handed in at the start of term 3
- Presentation and discussion of this research project during a 30-minute practical in term 3
- Science before the 19th century
- Establishment of scientific institutions
- Universities, researchers and scholars
- Developments up to the 2nd world war
- Responsibilities of scientists
- Scientific institutions, education and funding
- Science in Germany after unification
- What is Biology/Chemistry? Examples: Long-term experiments and other scientific topics of students’ choice
- Humanization of technology through technical progress
- Opening science to the public