Module Details

The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title Science, Society and Public Policy
Code PHIL732
Coordinator Dr TW Whyman
Philosophy
Tom.Whyman@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2024-25 Level 7 FHEQ Second Semester 30

Aims

This module introduces students to philosophical perspectives on science, society and public policy. It serves to both introduce students to a philosophical approach to these topics and equip students with the tools to better understand the world in which they live. Students will engage in three research projects during the module, two of which will be in groups, and lead to a group presentation and a poster, and the third of which will be a solo project leading to an essay.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Students will demonstrate an appreciation for philosophical approaches to science, society and public policy.

(LO2) Students will demonstrate their understanding of research in the areas of philosophy, science, society and public policy.

(LO3) Students will demonstrate their ability to research topics in philosophy.

(LO4) Students will demonstrate their ability to work on research projects, both in groups and as individuals.

(S1) Research skills.

(S2) Presentation skills, including both oral and visual skills.

(S3) Comprehension of philosophical ideas and arguments.

(S4) Application of philosophical ideas and arguments to societal, scientific and other practical issues.

(S5) Exposition of philosophical theories and arguments.

(S6) Construction and analysis of philosophical theories and arguments.

Syllabus
 

As this is a research-based module, the topics vary depending on the research interests of the staff teaching on the module. Reading and other relevant material is posted to Canvas before each staff member's segment of the module.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching method: Seminar
Description: Two-hour seminar each week led by tutors offering opportunities for students to engage in formative peer and tutor dialogue on an ongoing basis. In addition, student group oral presentations are formally assessed and feedback will support students in their final coursework submission.
Schedule directed student hours: 22
Unscheduled directed student hours: 278
Attendance recorded: Yes
Notes: Description of how self-directed learning hours may be used: Reading, researching, listening to podcasts, watching videos, discussing, writing.

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours   22

         22
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 278
TOTAL HOURS 300

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Assessed essay. There is a resit opportunity.   Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission.   This is an anonymous assessment.  0    70       
Group Oral Presentation. There is a resit opportunity, which is an individual presentation.   This is not an anonymous assessment.  10    15       
Group Poster. There is a resit opportunity, which is an individual poster.   Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission.   This is not an anonymous assessment.  0    15       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.