Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit takes as its starting point a number of observations. Firstly, there remain entrenched gender imbalances in many STEM (science,technology, engineering and maths) fields. Secondly, ideas about 'hard-wired' sex differences of body and/or brain, as well as ideas about gender fluidity, circulate freely in popular culture. Thirdly, theories of gender and scientific discourses are sometimes at odds. In all three scenarios, 'gender' and 'science' are held in some kind of relation. This unit is a collaboration between humanities and STEM academics at UWA, which explores how theories of gender 'explain' science; how science 'explains' gender; and how the discourses of gender studies and science can productively intersect. It is a core unit for students in the major of Gender Studies, as well as students majoring in Science and Technology Studies; but experienced students from any major — and especially STEM majors — are also welcome.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Gender Studies; Science and Technology in Society major sequences
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) identify key ways in which gender bias can manifest in scientific contexts; (2) use feminism to inform scientific methodologies and research; (3) use scientific research to inform feminist discourse; and (4) use constructive dialogue to explore differences of approach with regards to gender, science and feminism.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) dialogue and written reflection; (2) group case study; and (3) online quizzes. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Chantal Bourgault du Coudray and Dr Heather Bray
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
24 points
Advisable prior study
GEND1901 Beyond 'Gender Wars' (ID 1046)
or ENGL1902 Reading Bodies (ID 1676)
Contact hours
up to 3 hours per week for 10 weeks
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.