Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2025 - HSCI 903 G100

Interdisciplinary Seminar in Health Sciences II (3)

Class Number: 3551

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 6 – Apr 9, 2025: Thu, 8:30–11:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    HSCI 902.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Philosophical, disciplinary, and social groundings for inquiry, evaluation, and interdisciplinarity in health sciences research. Issues in research design, professionalism, engagement, and higher education.

COURSE DETAILS:

The course is designed to challenge conventional views of knowledge and foster critical thinking through the exploration of various epistemological frameworks. It aims to develop students' ability to analyze the influence of societal values on scientific research and appreciate the role of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing complex issues. A key goal is to support students in shaping their identities as researchers, combining self-reflection and insights from experienced faculty and others. This approach seeks to cultivate a comprehensive and personal understanding of scientific discourse, emphasizing the integration of diverse cultural and intellectual viewpoints.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Critically Analyze Diverse Epistemological Frameworks: Students will be able to identify and critically analyze different epistemological perspectives and understand their impact on scientific knowledge.
  • Understand the Role of Societal Values in Science: Students will develop an understanding of how societal values and ethics influence scientific research, recognizing the interconnectedness of social and scientific realms.
  • Engage with Transdisciplinary Research Approaches: Students will learn to appreciate and engage with transdisciplinary research methods, understanding their significance in addressing complex scientific and societal challenges.
  • Develop Researcher Identity through Reflection: Students will reflect on their personal and professional development as researchers, integrating insights from readings, class discussions, guest faculty narratives and their own knowledge, values and experiences.
  • Foster Critical Engagement with Scientific Discourse: Students will develop the ability to critically engage with scientific discourse, respecting and incorporating diverse cultural and intellectual perspectives.
  • Apply Critical Thinking to Scientific Problems: Students will learn to apply critical thinking skills to analyze and approach scientific problems, emphasizing the importance of holistic and inclusive scientific practices.
  • Cultivate Collaborative and Ethical Research Practices: Students will recognize the importance of collaborative and ethical practices in scientific research, aiming to contribute positively to the field and society.

Grading

  • Participation 25%
  • Reading responses 30%
  • Small group facilitation 20%
  • Reflective essay 25%

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Articles and other sources availble via the SFU Library or online

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.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

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.