[CHE 123] Chemistry and Society

Introduction

In this course, students will explore chemistry with an approach that shows the process of science and the ways in which chemistry impacts their lives every day. The topics that will be examined will demonstrate the ways in which chemists look at the world, learn from what they observe, and then extend what they know by making new materials or crafting solutions to problems. Students will explore chemistry in a problem-solving context, learning chemistry as they need it to understand parts of a contemporary societal problem. Some of the skills that students will need or develop in this course are: analytical thinking skills, communication and language skills, the ability to examine a problem critically, and the ability to find and use data to support positions on issues.

Some of the major questions we will examine include

• What is the "ozone hole" and why is it a concern? What causes it, and what can be done about it?
• What do we know about global warming? Should we be worried about it? Is there anything we could (or should) be doing about it?
• What do we mean by acid rain?
• What are the pros and cons of nuclear energy?

A note about math: this course is a non-mathematical treatment of chemistry. This means that it does not focus on numeric problem-solving, but this does not mean that students will not be using numbers at all. Students must use numbers to understand statistics as reported in the press, to compare unit systems, and to convert science terms into everyday terms. However, the instructor will be available to offer guidance and support every step of the way. In addition to text readings, there are commentaries with examples and discussion boards. Communication with the instructor is done primarily through personal discussion areas, discussion boards, and paging.

How to succeed in a science course: Learning chemistry is similar in some ways to learning to play the piano or to speak Russian. It requires a lot of practice to become familiar with the vocabulary, the pace of the work, and the new ways of thinking in this new environment. Students will have ample opportunity to practice in this course and will be expected to provide evidence of their work several times each week. This steady work toward meeting the goals of the course will improve their chances of succeeding in the course, but they must make the commitment to do the work needed to learn.

Description

UW Colleges Catalog Course Description for CHE 123: Chemistry and Society - 3 credits. A course for non-science majors that covers basic chemistry concepts in a social context. May include explorations of how chemistry impacts the environment, public health, energy policies, and other contemporary social issues. Consists of lectures and may also include discussions and demonstrations. Not a suitable prerequisite for higher-level chemistry courses or pre-professional programs. (A student may not earn more than four credits by taking CHE 123 and CHE 124.) This course fulfills the UWC requirement for Natural Sciences (NS).

Please Note: This course does not have a lab component. If you need a lab science course to meet your Associate degree requirements you should enroll in CHE 124.

Proficiencies

Institutional proficiencies assigned to this course

Successful completion of this course will enhance students' ability to

• analyze and evaluate arguments;
• select and apply scientific and other appropriate methodologies;
• demonstrate a large and varied vocabulary;
• communicate clearly, precisely, and in a well-organized manner.

Department-specific proficiencies assigned to this course

By completing this course, students will

• develop and demonstrate a sense of social responsibility, as well as the ability to evaluate situations and make decisions and choices with a clear and informed understanding of the moral and ethical issues and implications involved.

Requirements

For completing simple calculations, you are encouraged to use a simple calculator. If you are buying a calculator and intend to use it in further collegiate work, you should examine your future needs carefully. For this course, a calculator that includes basic functions (+, -, /, x, log, and exp) is fine, and should cost no more than $10. Check your computer as well. Most newer computers include fine calculators in the accessories folder.

Software

• Microsoft Word.

  The most current edition of MS Office (containing MS Word and other valuable programs) is available to University of Wisconsin students at discounted prices through the Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog.

• Adobe Acrobat Reader and Flash Player.

  Both are freely available and likely already installed on your computer.

Hardware

• The use of a scanner is not required but may be helpful when submitting some assignments.
• You will probably want to have access to a printer, although this too is not required. (All of your assignments will be submitted electronically.)

About the Instructors

• Julie Bezzerides
  Associate Lecturer, Chemistry
  BS, Colorado State University
  MAT, State University of New York at Cortland