Computer
Applications in Science
Prerequisites
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Member of SITPA
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Junior or Senior
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2 years of Science with a C or above
Course objectives
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Meet the graduation requirement in computer literacy. This includes
having a working knowledge of the skills outlined below and an understanding
the ethics of using computers.
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Understand and apply the scientific method.
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Demonstrate an understanding of the role computers play in scientific
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data acquisition
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data analysis
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publication
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Demonstrate a working knowledge of:
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Data acquisition with sensor probes and from databases
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Data analysis with databases, spreadsheets, plotters and imaging
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Word processing
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Email
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Collaborative tools
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Presentation programs
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Web publishing
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Understand file formats and their applications
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Understand the function of an operating system
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Understand how networks are used in science
Requirements
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Receive and submit assignments through email and Web pages
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Serve on a Help Desk team in one of the content areas
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Teach lessons in one or more of the content areas
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Assist a guest instructor
in preparing and delivering a lesson
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Make oral and written presentations as PowerPoint presentations
and Web pages
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Keep a lab notebook and understand the uses of an electronic
lab notebook
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Maintain an electronic portfolio
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Notebook requirement
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Keep a separate notebook for this class -
A bound notebook, not a folder with loose sheets of paper.
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Notes must be taken every day and dated in the upper right corner.
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Notes must include:
* All class and homework assignments
* Definitions, procedures and sketches (as needed)
* Questions that remain unanswered at the end of class
Expectations of Students
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Give respectful attention to someone speaking, whether to the class or
to you
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Take notes: clearly, neatly, organized
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Ask questions when you don’t understand something - of the teacher, fellow
students
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Work with others - partners, team, teacher
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Help others
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Voice your opinion: Say what you think is correct or incorrect, what you
like and don’t like
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Be punctual: to class and with your work
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Always try to do a good job
Student Expectations of the Instructor
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Give us more time to complete assignments.
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Pay attention to the students and their ideas and don't assume that you
know what they already want.
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Make assignments interesting/fun.
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Photocopy agenda to save time.
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Give instructions that everyone can understand.
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Focus on one task instead of assigning multiple tasks at one time.
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Help students individually more often.
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Be aware that not all students are at the same level with the computers.
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Be aware that not all students can finish assignments with the computer
on time because some computers are much slower than others.
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Be aware that not everyone has a computer at home and can't go to the library
all of the time.