Handbook

Most “big questions” in Science require an interdisciplinary approach, where scientists collaborate to generate new knowledge and approaches to develop solutions. In this course students will learn to think like a Scientist and tackle “real world” problems by spending the term working in interdisciplinary teams in project areas ranging from climate change, public health, to life on other planets. Projects will unite students by shared motivations for pursuing Science, but will allow students to contribute their disciplinary and personal perspective toward developing a solution.

Project facilitators will introduce the projects in week 1 and students will make their choices based on preferences. From week 2 students will work in project groups for the remainder of the term. Project work will be primarily done in class time, in two tutorial sessions each week. Each tutorial section will have a few groups, and project facilitators will closely guide teams in developing key skills and conducting project work. Over the term, students will pitch their project plan, analyse data, and research and develop a solution to their project brief. At the end of the term, students will showcase their work to peers and project leaders, and some groups will be selected to showcase their projects outside of the course.

This course also functions as a checkpoint to allow students to reflect on their personal and academic learnings in the first year of their program. The course will provide workshops and support to help student choose their major, explore their professional identities, and consider professional development activities for second and third year. This course also provides student the opportunity to network with peers and share perspectives and experiences on their program choices and career goals.

The core skills in this course reinforce Program Learning Outcomes (PLO), the broad set of skills that all UNSW BSc/Advance BSc students should obtain. Connecting academic and personal experiences to PLO will help propel students toward their professional aspirations. The core skills practiced in this course include teamwork, project management, and scientific problem solving. This experience will provide a foundation to build further knowledge and prepare students for future professional opportunities in 2nd and 3rd year.

Assumed knowledge: This course is intended for first year students who have completed 24 units of credit toward their program. No specific disciplinary knowledge is required.