SCI 130 Introduction to Research

Course Number and Title: SCI 130 Introduction to Research

Print Syllabus
Campus Location:
Georgetown, Dover, Stanton, Wilmington
Effective Date:
2021-52
Prerequisite:
SSC 100 or concurrent
Co-Requisites:

None

Course Credits and Hours:
2.00 credits
1.00 lecture hours/week
2.00 lab hours/week
Course Description:

This course investigates the components of a research project, including scientific principles, project design, documentation, communication, and professional ethics and behavior.

Required Text(s):

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Additional Materials:

None

Schedule Type:
Classroom Course
Hybrid Course
Disclaimer:

None

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs):
  1. Evaluate scientific principles. (CCC 6)
  2. Describe the components of a research proposal. (CCC 2, 5)
  3. Plan and conduct a research project. (CCC 2, 3)
  4. Document and summarize research results. (CCC 1, 2)
  5. Present a research project. (CCC 1)
  6. Discuss professional ethics and behavior. (CCC 4)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs):

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Evaluate scientific principles.
    1. List and define components of the scientific method.
    2. Discuss elements of critical thinking.
    3. Relate the scientific method to an everyday experience.
    4. Compare science and pseudoscience, and give examples.
    5. Compare a hypothesis versus a theory.
    6. Explain the falsifiability of a hypothesis.
    7. Describe the role of experimentation.
    8. Discuss the analysis of experimental results to test the hypothesis.
  2. Describe the components of a research proposal.
    1. Discuss methods to gather background information for a research proposal.
    2. Identify and state the driving question in a research proposal.
    3. Identify and state the hypothesis of a research proposal.
    4. Define and give examples of dependent and independent variables.
    5. Define and give examples of positive and negative controls.
    6. Identify the hypothesis, controls, and variables of a given research proposal.
  3. Plan and conduct a research project.
    1. State the question which drives the proposal.
    2. Collect background information on the proposal.
    3. State the hypothesis of the research project.
    4. Design the experiment, including number of trials.
    5. State the dependent and independent variables.
    6. State the positive and negative controls.
    7. List equipment and supplies and estimated cost.
    8. Conduct the experiment.
  4. Document and summarize research results.
    1. List components of a laboratory notebook.
    2. Explore accepted practices for proper record keeping.
    3. Review laboratory report for proper record keeping.
    4. Document components of the research project in the laboratory notebook.
    5. Organize data in appropriate formats such as table, graph, spreadsheet, etc.
    6. Summarize research results.
  5. Present a research project.
    1. Present an oral presentation on the research project.
    2. List guidelines for a Power Point presentation.
    3. List components of an effective oral presentation.
    4. Prepare and present a scientific poster on the research project using presentation software.
  6. Discuss professional ethics and behavior.
    1. Define and give examples of plagiarism, intellectual property, citations, and falsifying data.
    2. Discuss laboratory notebooks as legal documents.
    3. Define Institutional Review Boards (IRB) and their role in overseeing research.
    4. Discuss case studies involving research ethics.
    5. Discuss and give examples of appropriate professional dress and demeanor. 
Evaluation Criteria/Policies:

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90 – 100 = A
80 – 89 = B
70 – 79 = C
0 – 69 = F

Students should refer to the Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

 
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop):
  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major):

None

Disabilities Support Statement:

The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. A listing of campus Disabilities Support Counselors and contact information can be found at the disabilities services web page or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements:
Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.