Cluster Three: The Natural World

Dr. Elizabeth T. Brown, Coordinator

Scientific investigations into the natural world use analytical methods to evaluate evidence, build and test models based on that evidence, and develop theories. Mathematical studies of form and pattern can create a language that assists in these investigations. Courses in this cluster provide students with the opportunity to develop problem-solving skills in science and mathematics at the college level. Students will be introduced to a substantial body of scientific facts, concepts, models and theories, and they will also gain experience in using basic mathematics to obtain knowledge about the natural world. The cluster is cross disciplinary, thereby demonstrating boundaries and connections among mathematics, the sciences and other aspects of culture.

Typically students begin Cluster Three during their first year and should complete it by the end of their sophomore year. Individual courses satisfy requirements in a number of major and professional programs. Students are encouraged to select appropriate courses in Cluster Three on the basis of their backgrounds, interests and educational objectives.

Cluster Three Learning Objectives

After completing Cluster Three: The Natural World, students should be able to meet the following objectives:

• Describe the methods of inquiry that lead to mathematical truth and scientific knowledge and be able to distinguish science from pseudoscience.
• Use theories and models as unifying principles that help us understand natural phenomena and make predictions.
• Recognize the interdependence of applied research, basic research and technology, and how they affect society.
• Identify the interdependence of natural systems with the social, economic and ethical aspects of global and local issues.
• Use graphical, symbolic and numerical methods to analyze, organize and interpret natural phenomena.
• Discriminate between association and causation, and identify the types of evidence used to establish causation.
• Formulate hypotheses, identify relevant variables and design experiments to test hypotheses.
• Evaluate the credibility, use and misuse of scientific and mathematical information in scientific developments and public-policy issues.