FYSM 147 - Scientific Integrity and Research Methods

Institution:

Trinity College

Subject:

Description:

Science is defined in the American Heritage Dictionary as "the observation, identification, description, experimental investigation, and theoretical explanation of phenomena ." Scientific research is often conducted away from the watchful eye of the public and the media. However, when scientific research is controversial and sensational and reported publicly by the news media, who should be held responsible when data or the interpretation of that data are flawed (as in the misrepresented dangers of Esctasy use) If the research is funded by the federal government (such as biodefense research on Anthrax or Mad Cow Disease), should the funding agency have the right to regulate and oversee how the research is conducted If the researchers testing a new medical device are also major stockholders in the company owning the device's patent, should it matter who performed the tests as long as the results are verifiable and reproducible Through dissemination and discussion of scientific case studies, students will begin to understand the design and implementation scientific experiments and to analyze the ethical implications of scientific research. Students will learn how to critically evaluate current topics of scientific misconduct and conflicts of interest. Questions that will be addressed are the following: What defines a scientist What is the scientist's role in society, industry, academia, and government What are the choices and pressures scientists face What is "good" science What constitutes misconduct (or "bad" science) What responsibilities do scientists have toward students, colleagues, and the ideals within their fields of study Students are required to read, evaluate, and write weekly case studies and participate in class discussions. One group project will be assigned and presented orally to the class. This project involves the selection of current or historical scientific case and a thorough analysis of the history, science, and ethics of the conflict. Weekly readings will be assigned from several sources such as Scientific Integrity: An Introductory Text With Cases 2nd edition, by Francis Macrina and Responsible Conduct of Research, by Adil Shamoo and David Resnik. Other pertinent articles will be assigned at the instructor's discretion. Although no rigorous background in a specific scientific discipline is necessary, students are expected to understand basic terminology and to be able to read and disseminate science written for the general public. 1.00 units, Seminar

Credits:

1.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.Trincoll.edu

Phone Number:

(860) 297-2000

Regional Accreditation:

New England Association of Schools and Colleges

Calendar System:

Semester

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