Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - SCI 300 B100

Science and its Impact on Society (3)

Class Number: 5923

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, 5:30–6:50 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Uwe Kreis
    ukreis@sfu.ca
    778-782-5606
    Office: SSB8144

  • Prerequisites:

    60 units.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The impact of science in our society. This course introduces upper level university students to all facets of science and their resulting technologies. Governmental policies often involve far-reaching scientific/technological decisions and this course attempts to provide a scientific perspective to help achieve rational and effective policies. Not open to students in the Faculty of Science or the Schools of Computing Science, Engineering Science. Breadth-Science.

COURSE DETAILS:

SCI300 introduces students to the big ideas behind science and its role in shaping society, technology, and our understanding of life. Through topics like energy, evolution, consciousness, and Indigenous knowledge systems, the course explores how scientific thinking develops and how to critically assess claims in media, policy, and everyday life.

Students will build scientific literacy by exploring how scientific knowledge is constructed, questioned, and communicated. Grounded in collaboration, critical thinking, and respectful discourse, SCI300 offers an engaging, thought-provoking way to understand science — no matter your academic background.

Overview of Topics Covered:

  • The Scientific Method
  • Indigenous Science
  • Quantum Theory and the Nature of Reality
  • Energy & Matter: An Eternal Dance
  • Water: The Molecule of Life
  • The Chemistry of Life: Photosynthesis and Food Science
  • Microbiology: The Emergence of Life
  • Evolution & Genetics: Life as we Know It
  • The Interconnectedness of Life: All my relations
  • Neuroscience: What it means to be Human

Course Format:

This course will be offered in a blended course format combining both in-person and online components. In-person lecture time will 1.5 hrs. each week of the semester. Tutorials will run in-person each week and be used for review, peer discourse and team project presentations.

The online component will consist of reading (or video/podcast) assignments, pre-lecture and post-lecture reflective assignments.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  • Understand and explain key scientific ideas that shape life, society, and the natural world
  • Compare Indigenous and Western scientific worldviews and ways of knowing
  • Communicate scientific ideas clearly through discussion and collaborative projects
  • Reflect on your evolving understanding of science and your role within it

Grading

  • Debate Team Project 20%
  • Expert Panel / WorldCafe Project 20%
  • Online Team Project 25%
  • Participation, Engagement, Exit Tickets, In class/online assignments 35%

Materials

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.