Natural Sciences Elective

Core Course Description

In an effort to increase student understanding of the purpose of and interconnectivity between core courses, the syllabus should include the following statement (which is not a Catalog text):

"The natural sciences extend beyond an exploration of the natural world - they also inform us about our interrelationship to it. In this science elective course, students will improve their understanding of the scientific method and their ability to analyze claims and information regarding science through experiences in lectures and labs. In addition to knowing more about a specific scientific discipline, they will be better able to evaluate the use of science in society and everyday life in an informed manner."

Student Learning Objectives

Student Learning Objectives are assessable and must be included in all syllabi. SLOs will be measured through the efforts of the Core Curriculum Assessment Committee and possibly through student evaluations. Each syllabus should contain the following:

"This course is part of the Xavier Core Curriculum, which aims to develop people of learning and reflection, integrity and achievement, in solidarity for and with others. It addresses the following core learning objectives at the intermediate level:

1a: Students recognize and cogently discuss significant questions in the humanities, arts, and the natural and social sciences.

And it includes the following core learning objective(s) at the introductory level:

4b and/or 5b: Students discuss and evaluate what constitutes human wellness, and/or Students examine the interconnections between humans and the natural environment. [choose one or both]

[The above is a minimum for Natural Science Electives. Individual instructors are encouraged to add other core SLOs as appropriate.]

In addition to Xavier core learning objectives, this course includes these other key learning objectives:

[Additional SLOs to be determined by individual instructors/departments]"

Course Principles

Course principles are to be addressed substantively through topics and graded assignments in every course fitting the description. While these need not be stated in the syllabus, faculty are encouraged to regularly point out how assignments are achieving these goals.

1. Students will investigate in-depth content in a specific scientific discipline.

2. Students will apply methods, procedures, ideas, and concepts appropriate to a specific scientific discipline.

3. Students will consider the societal, ethical and moral dimensions of science and technology that they experience in their everyday lives.

Approval Procedure

Natural Sciences Elective courses are offered by the Biology, Chemistry or Physics Departments. If you would like to teach a Natural Sciences Elective course, submit your request to the one of these department chairs, who will review it and make a recommendation to CCC.