CHEM 160
CHEMISTRY SEMINAR
Catalog Entry
CHEM 160. Chemistry Seminar
Two hours lecture (2).
This seminar will better prepare students to successfully complete the chemistry major at Radford University and positions them for successful careers. In the course of the semester students will gain knowledge and exposure to career options, faculty research, laboratory safety, ethical science, and professional societies.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
The major areas are:
1) Career Options: Significant time will be devoted to graduate study opportunities, careers in industry and health related careers. The exploration of career paths may include alumni presentations, panel discussions, field trips, and classroom discussions.
2) Chemistry Faculty and Research Interests: Students will gain exposure to faculty research, research facilitie, library resources, and advising information for undergraduate research..
3) Laboratory Safety: Students will learn to identify common hazards, methods to minimize exposures and risks, and what to do in case of an emergency.
4) Ethical Science: Students and faculty will discuss the role of ethical judgment in science, including conflicts of interest and questions of ethical misconduct.
5) Professional Societies: Students will be introduced to the professional societies in Chemistry and their roles and responsibilities within the scientific community. Students will be introduced to opportunities available through the American Chemical Society and student and community organizations.
6) Chemical and Engineering News will be required reading integrated throughout the entire semester. Articles will be used as discussion platforms to emphasize the role of chemistry in broader society.
Detailed Description of Conduct of the Course
Students will be required to complete and provided feedback on multiple assignments. Assignments will include:
1) A four year plan of study, which will include courses, extracurricular activities, summer plans including internships, timeline for tests and applications associated with employment, graduate and professional schools.
2) A writing assignment reflecting on their goals while at at Radford University and expectations for future careers.
3) Informative presentation for discussion on a current scientific issue and its relationship to self and society.
4) Class participation through class discussions.
As well as assignments, the course will include multiple invited speakers with varied experiences in chemistry.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Having successfully completed this course the student will be able to:
1) Create a four year plan of study
2) Have an appreciation for the role of chemistry in society.
3) Understand their role in maintaining a safe and ethical environment.
Assessment Measures
Assessment of learning objectives will be conducted through grading and feedback of
assignments, presentations, and discussions.
Other Course Information
None
Review and Approval
DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
New Course 4/13/2009 Francis Webster