Dep00W Spring 2022
Selected topics in history of science
Course requirements
--- Lectures are not compulsory, the presentations described below, should be presented in person in
class. If it is indeed unavoidable, online presentations may be negotiated Come when you present
yourself; and your fellow students will certainly appreciate if you come when they present. Please, chose
a date through this link, if you have not done so:
---- If all else fails, a written assignment (essay) on a history of science topic may be a substitute. Scroll
down for details.
--- Each student will give a presentation on a chosen topic in history of science (or technology).
Some possible topics:
--- life and work of a scientist of choice (Mendel is a popular theme, but therefore hard to present)
--- a story of a dispute between scientists / scientific debate (e. g. disputes about the solar system,
acceptance of Darwinism, etc.)
--- discoveries (chemistry: new elements; physics: new particles)
--- attempts to make our knowledge systematic (Linné, Mendeleev)
Length and structure of the presentation
--- Your presentation should be at least 3, but no more than 8 minutes long. Ideal length: 5 mins.
--- State your aims, explain why you chose the topic, and what your sources were.
--- Say what you have learned from that story. How does it enrich your views in general?
--- If more people join forces for the same topic, the time may be doubled / tripled / etc., as appropriate.
Length and structure of the written essay
--- Your presentation should be at least 3, but no more than 6 pages long (excluding illustrations).
--- Your English should be understandable, but beyond that, it will not be a part of the mark (imperfect
English, if understandable, does not make your essay inacceptable).
--- The essay should be submitted by 24 June 2022 (a week before the end of term) through Information
System or earlier, if you wish me submit your mark earlier (please, allow one week for the corrections).
--- In other respects, please, follow the instructions for the presentation (including the requirement on
length if more people cooperate on the topic).