PLS2607: Philosophy of Science is a demanding module, but it will enrich your life. Science is part of life, and so, too, should reflection upon the
... [Show More] phenomenon and practice of science, which is what we will attempt to do in this module.
This tutorial letter sets out your programme of study for the semester (Semester 1 and Semester 2, 2022). It is a valuable document providing important information for planning your studies effectively. You should read through this tutorial letter before doing anything else, familiarising yourself with the module outline, the outcomes of the module, how the module is assessed, as well as other technical issues.
The following additional tutorial matter is also available for download on myUnisa:
• Tutorial Letter 301 (WYSALLB) and
• Study guide for PLS2607 (Philosophy of Science).
To cope with the module content, proper planning is essential for successful completion of the module Philosophy of Science. The syllabus is divided into a number of topics, each with a central theme. While we do provide you with a study programme, you may find it more useful to create your own study programme better suited to your unique situation. Either way, the use of a study programme is essential and is to be encouraged.
A gentle reminder, however, organise your study programme in such a way that you have enough time to prepare for the take home examination.
As with all modules offered by the Discipline of Philosophy at undergraduate level, Philosophy of Science has been semesterised, and so the following apply:
• Study periods for Semester 1, 2022 begin with reception of your study material following registration, and conclude with examinations in May/June 2022, while Semester 2, 2022 is examined in October/November 2022.
For the successful completion of Philosophy of Science, it would be helpful for you to keep this Tutorial Letter 101 by your side. Of particular importance is the reading required for each study unit (which you will be able to locate in Section 6 of this Tutorial Letter 101. The readings will assist you with the completion of the required assignments as well as in preparation for the examination.
You should follow the structure and guidelines, as set out in this tutorial letter to cope with the workload.
Assessment for Philosophy of Science is done through both formative and summative assessment. You will be assessed formatively through two assignments: a compulsory assignment and a second assignment. It is to your advantage to submit both assignments, as both assignments contribute towards the final mark you will obtain for the examination. Moreover, your assignment marks will determine examination entry.
By working through all the prescribed material, completing the activities, self-tests, as well as your assignments, you will ensure that the syllabus is covered.
During the semester you will receive two follow-up tutorial letters: one after each assignment has been submitted. These are important, for they provide you with explanations of problems. Moreover, they provide information on methodology to be employed in the successful writing of philosophical texts.
myUnisa is used extensively in this module and we encourage you to frequently visit the module site. There you will not only find the official study material (such as the study guide, tutorial letters, etc., in electronic format) but will be able to access many additional resources – including learning units – related to the content of the module. Most importantly, however, myUnisa provides students with the occasion to engage with your lecturers and with other students on the discussion forums. [Show Less]