CHEM1801 — Science Savvy
If students and chemistry were in a Facebook relationship, the status would be "it's complicated." Some students love science and some love to hate it. "America's Finest News Source," The Onion, has repeatedly reported that "science is hard" but are they right? Chemistry is too important in our modern world to be ignored simply because it's complicated or perceived to be hard. Some science is hard but just because a science topic is complex doesn't mean that it can only be understood by rocket scientists. Through written reflections and discussions based on mainstream science books and current event articles, students explore the connections between science and society. The course helps students to understand the role of experts and bias in the reporting. The course also helps students to become more science literate about the green and sustainable activities on campus. Ultimately, this course fosters a relationship where students both need and want to be engaged with chemistry. [Note: credit and general education designation will not be granted if credit has been earned in Chem 1001] prereq: new college student in their first semester of enrollment at UMM