Instructor: Miguel Leal Jr.
Description: The objectives of the course are to introduce students to a range of modern scientific topics through the lens of popular culture and to think about how science is portrayed to the general public in media including articles, books, podcasts, TV, and movies. The course will be organized around major topics including: Genetics/Medicine, Environmental Science, Artificial Intelligence, Physics, and Quantum Mechanics. The sorts of questions we will consider are things like: “What are the underlying scientific principles?”; “Is science portrayed well and accurately?”; “Does it matter if the science is distorted if it helps the plot of a story?” The course will involve both in class screenings and group discussion as well as out of class assignments including readings and audio/visual content including podcasts, documentaries, etc. The course will also include a field trip to movie screening in a local theater. Most of all I hope that the course is not only a good learning experience for students but that students enjoy it too.
Meeting Dates: 01/02/2024 – 01/24/2024
Meeting Times: M-F 01:00PM – 04:00PM
Meeting Location: IDEA Center 214
Section Requisites: N/A
Course Fee: $50
Out-of-Pocket Expenses: $50