Vocational qualification

In East Sussex

Price on request

Description

  • Type

    Vocational qualification

  • Location

    East sussex

  • Duration

    1 Year

The course is very popular with science students looking to broaden or deepen their studies, particularly those intending to apply to study Medicine or Veterinary science. It is also popular amongst Social science and Humanities students who are interested in discussing ethical and philosophical issues in science. If you are motivated by developing expertise in a question that really interests.

Facilities

Location

Start date

East Sussex (Cambridgeshire )
205 Dyke Road, Hove, BN3 6EG

Start date

On request

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Reviews

Course programme


Is this the right course for me?

This is a one year course for second or final year students. It can be a component of the AQA Baccalaureate qualification (see separate leaflet for details.)

Perspectives on Science (PoS) is an acclaimed Level 3 Extended Project course designed to develop the independent research and critical analysis skills that are highly prized by universities. We have a strong track-record of success. Of the top ten PoS students in the country in 2008, six were from BHASVIC!

The course is very popular with science students looking to broaden or deepen their studies, particularly those intending to apply to study Medicine or Veterinary science . It is also popular amongst Social science and Humanities students who are interested in discussing ethical and philosophical issues in science. If you are motivated by developing expertise in a question that really interests you and are prepared to work under your own initiative, then you should definitely consider this course

You will be guided and supported through the whole process of independent research, from identifying a research question to reflecting on your own learning and performance. Along the way you will learn how to manage a substantial independent project, find sources, judge their reliability and validity, develop effective arguments, focus and structure extended writing, present your work orally and visually to an audience.

What is the subject content?

It†s mainly up to you. The course begins with a grounding in the philosophy and methods of science, alongside practical skills in researching historical case studies such as the race to discover the structure of DNA.

The focus then moves to the ethical frameworks that influence scientific decisions. Ethical issues are discussed in relation to case studies such as euthanasia, cloning and embryonic stem cell research, animal rights and weapons technology etc.

From this point, you will develop your own research question, which will link to one of the following topic areas:
  • the origins of the universe
  • the human mind
  • the beginning and ending of life
  • genetics
  • animal welfare
  • scientific revolutions
  • the mechanistic universe.

How will I be taught?

There are four lessons per week. In the first term, the lessons involve group research, student presentations, discussion and debates, developing a broad understanding of scientific ethics and philosophy, and the development of the skills you will need for your own project. You will write a research proposal in the first term.

In the second term, teaching shifts to a more individual or small group tutorial style. You will be invited to present your â€-work in progress†for feedback from a small group, and study groups will form to discuss their selected issues in the classroom and in online forums. You will write your dissertation and begin to prepare a presentation about your work. Teachers are available for individual support in both face-to-face sessions and via online discussion. In the third term you will prepare, practice and give your assessed presentation.

How will my work be assessed?

You will submit a 6,000 word dissertation in an appropriate format, a project proposal and a log of the research process for assessment. You will also present your research to the assessors and peers and answer their questions. There is no written exam, and the course ends before A level study leave.

Will the workload be manageable?

It†s comparable to any other AS course, but you†ll need to manage your own workload. You†ll be free to focus on your exam courses by May.

What will I get out of the Perspectives on Science Extended Project?

You will learn advanced level independent research and critical analysis skills which will give you a real advantage at university level.

You can show wider reading, motivation and commitment in your university applications and it may help you with interviews.

The Extended Project has a UCAS points tariff equivalent to one AS level (up to 60 points). Most BHASVIC students achieve top grades.

What have students said about PoS?

â€OESets you up for universityâ€

â€OEOpens your mind!â€

â€OEA great new way to learn, more freeâ€

â€OEThe class atmosphere is great, you get to know everyone really quickly and that makes the class discussions easier and enjoyable.â€

â€OEA refreshing change from other subjects.â€

â€OEIt taught me to do research independently, write a good dissertation and make a good presentation… a head start for universityâ€

â€OEI'm really glad I did Perspectives on Science, I†d recommend it to anyone, as long as they†re prepared to put the work inâ€

â€OEDo PoS if you want successâ€

10/08

Perspectives on Science

Price on request