Universität Wien

300075 VU Lessons in Scientific Thinking: Understanding Evolution (2026S)

5.00 ECTS (3.00 SWS), SPL 30 - Biologie
Continuous assessment of course work
Moodle
We 17.06. 11:30-13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1

Registration/Deregistration

Note: The time of your registration within the registration period has no effect on the allocation of places (no first come, first served).

Details

max. 12 participants
Language: English

Lecturers

Classes (iCal) - next class is marked with N

First class meeting: 11:30-13:00, Wed. 11 Mar. 2026 in SR 1.5
No class on 13 May 2026.

  • Wednesday 15.04. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 22.04. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 29.04. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 06.05. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 20.05. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 27.05. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 03.06. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 10.06. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1
  • Wednesday 24.06. 11:30 - 13:00 Seminarraum 1.5, Biologie Djerassiplatz 1, 1.012, Ebene 1

Information

Aims, contents and method of the course

This course is intended to help scientists and teachers develop advanced and subtle thinking skills to improve their understanding and communication of central scientific concepts and approaches. Participants will work with various modes of thinking employed in science, with a focus on how science works to understand and explain the world – how do we know what we know? The course will emphasize explaining and communicating science to non-scientific audiences.

Topics include what science is and how it works, how scientists think about different kinds of questions, and how to communicate scientific ideas and results to non-scientists. Examples will be drawn from evolutionary biology, earth history, climate science, ecology, and other areas of science. Lessons will also include critical thinking and dealing with media misinformation. Other topics can be included according to students' interests.

Each lesson will include resources for learning about and teaching the relevant information and concepts (readings, exercises, videos), and most will include a writing exercise.

Assessment and permitted materials

The course will include small-group discussions and in-class exercises, reading/viewing assignments, and short writing assignments, as well as opportunities to practice presenting and explaining scientific concepts.

Minimum requirements and assessment criteria

Evaluation is based on attendance and participation in class (50%) and completion of homework assignments (50%). Attendance is required: two absences (excused or unexcused) will be allowed before the grade is affected (approx. 1 grade point per two additional absences). Late homework will receive a maximum of half credit.

Examination topics

Discussion and presentation of homework and writing exercises, and in-class group work.

Reading list

Weekly assignments of various articles, videos, and other resources.

Association in the course directory

UF MA BU 04, MZO4, MEC-9

Last modified: Mo 30.03.2026 15:07