Perspectives on Science and Engineering
SCIE 198, Perspectives on Science and Engineering (PSE), is a special course that supplements the standard academic program of some qualified freshmen. A series of six lectures each term (one every other week, with discussion sections held on the alternate weeks) addresses major questions in a full range of science and engineering disciplines and provides close analysis of specific instances in which these questions arise. Each student is required to participate in the weekly meetings, to answer a question sheet in preparation for the discussion sections, and to lead one discussion section each term. A paper related to one of the lecture topics or a proposed summer research project (see below) is required in the second term. During the discussion meetings, groups of fifteen students with two members of the science and engineering faculty pursue questions, ideas, and problems related to the lectures or to the recommended supplemental readings. Two to three students are responsible for organizing each discussion meeting. Since the scope of Perspectives on Science and Engineering is broader than any individual professor’s expertise, faculty members participate not as authorities, but as fellow students who can provide interdisciplinary perspective. The goal is lively discussion of important scientific topics among students and science faculty. Perspectives on Science and Engineering is intended as a supplemental course. It does not replace any other course in a student's freshman program. One course credit is awarded for successful completion of the year's work. |
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Participants are expected to demonstrate an interest in science through their course selections, which normally include one or two other courses in science, mathematics, or engineering in each term of the freshman year.
Note: It is anticipated that paid research positions under the supervision of Yale faculty will be made available to a number of Perspectives on Science and Engineering students during the summer of 2010.
