N/Natural Sciences:

These outcomes are fulfilled through courses in the natural sciences emphasizing the scientific procedures employed in the development of the theoretical structure of science.  Eligible courses emphasize fundamental concepts rather than methodology.

Over the last two centuries, the impact of science on society has been as profound as that of any other social force in human history.  Therefore, it is important for students to be adequately exposed to science.  This experience should be confined to factual information, but it should emphasize as well the process by which discoveries are made.  At the level of general education core, understanding the scientific process is as important as the facts obtained from the application of the process.  Eligible courses must have both lecture and laboratory components.

The Departments of Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Geological Sciences, and Physics are primarily responsible for offering courses in this area.

Learning Outcomes:

Students will demonstrate:

• the ability to analyze data;
• understanding of the methods scientists use to explore natural phenomena, including observation, hypothesis development, measurement and data collection, experimentation, evaluation of evidence, and employment of mathematical analysis;
• the ability to apply scientific data, concepts, and models in two of the natural sciences.