NSET 182 - Are We Alone? The Search for Life

Institution:

Point Park University

Subject:

NATURAL SCIENCES AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

Description:

This course will use this question as a lens to explore astrobiology, the study of life in the universe. Throughout the course, students will apply critical thinking and evidence based reasoning to come up with their own answer to this mystery. Students will examine key topics in astronomy, geology, biology, chemistry, and other fields to investigate this question from all angles. Ultimately, students will make their own evidence based conclusions about whether life exists elsewhere in the cosmos, where we might find it and what it might mean if we don't. Course Objectives Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to: (1)Describe the biological and chemical basis for life (2) Apply concepts and analyze findings in astronomy, geology, and other natural sciences to predict where life could be in the univers (3) Explain ways astrobiologists predict and look for life beyond Earth and their technological and physical limitations (4) Interpret data and research in astrobiology-related science fields in the context of the search for extraterrestrial life. (5) Synthesize results of scientific studies and classroom exploration to predict whether finding life (and intelligent life) is likely and argue the case with others. (6) Create a viable, evidence-based solution to the Fermi Paradox

Credits:

3.00

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.pointpark.edu

Phone Number:

(412) 391-4100

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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