The aims of this course are as follows.
- To foster researchers who consider social impacts of their research activities
- To have an ability to critically think about science
(1) Strengthen the ability to study science from various perspectives and in a critical manner
(2) Have knowledge and skills to analyze case studies of STS
social responsibility of researchers; scientific rationality; government and science
Specialist skills | ✔ Intercultural skills | ✔ Communication skills | Critical thinking skills | Practical and/or problem-solving skills |
Mainly in a lecture style. But, small group discussion might be introduced.
Course schedule | Required learning | |
---|---|---|
Class 1 | Introduction | |
Class 2 | Functions of academic papers and scientific misconducts | To contemplate the best form of researchers |
Class 3 | Interface between engineering ethics and science and technology studies | To understand context sensitiveness of "ethical behavior" |
Class 4 | Case study: Minamata disease | To understand relation between science and political authority |
Class 5 | Case study; Itai-itai disease | To understand relation between science and political authority |
Class 6 | Case study: FBR Monju | To understand relation between science and government |
Class 7 | Case study: Low dose radiation after Fukushima nuclear plant accident | To understand science for risk governance |
To enhance effective learning, students are encouraged to spend approximately 100 minutes preparing for class and another 100 minutes reviewing class content afterwards (including assignments) for each class.
They should do so by referring to textbooks and other course material.
None.
Yuko Fujigaki (eds.), Lessons From Fukushima: Japanese Case Studies on Science, Technology and Society, Springer.
Hand out materials as needed.
Exercise problems (30%) and a final report (70%)
None.
Depending on the status of COVID-19 infection, I may switch this class to online/on-demand.