Course syllabus

Genus i naturvetenskap och teknik
Gender in Science and Engineering

GEMF05, 7,5 credits, G2 (First Cycle)

Valid for: 2012/13
Decided by: Education Board 1
Date of Decision: 2012-03-22

General Information

Depth of study relative to the degree requirements: First cycle, has at least 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements.
Elective for: A3, B4, BI3, BME4, C4, D4, E2, F2, I4, K4, KID2, L4, M4, MD4, MID1, N3, Pi4, RH4, V4, W4
Language of instruction: The course will be given in English

Aim

The aim of this course is to give an understanding of how gender analysis can be relevant within the student’s own field of study.

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding
For a passing grade the student must

- have knowledge about gender relations historically and in contemporary society

- have knowledge of central theories and concepts within gender studies

- have insight on gender research and studies gender of natural sciences and technology

Competences and skills
For a passing grade the student must

- have developed the ability to think critically and independently about relationships between gender and social structure

- be able to analyse and reflect upon her/his own university education, using a gender perspective

- have strengthened her/his ability to write, analyze and to give oral presentations.

Judgement and approach
For a passing grade the student must

demonstrate an understanding of the significance of the gender perspective in teaching and education in science and technology

Contents

1) Introduction to gender studies.

The first part of the course gives a brief introduction to the field of gender studies. Different theories within gender studies are presented. Particular attention is given to the concepts of gender, masculinity and femininity and to how these concepts can be used as analytical tools. This course explores thematically power relations and the social construction of gender in everyday and working life with particular focus on historical and social science research regarding science and technology. Additionally attention will be given to current research regarding equality, gender theory and education in relation to science and technology.

2) Project.

In this part of the course, the course participants, preferably in groups, will carry out a gender analysis of their own university educations. This may include a gender analysis of aspects of university education such as forms of examination, the organisation and structure of course, course literature, laboratory work, lectures and interactions between students, teachers and teaching assistants. The projects are completed through an oral presentation and a written report.

Examination details

Grading scale: UG
Assessment: At least 80% attendance at lectures and participation in project meetings is required, the grade of pass on papers (for the theory part of the course) as well as the grade of pass on the project work, oral presentation of the project and written report on the project. The possibility of oral presentation of project work is given once a term.

Parts
Code: 0107. Name: Project.
Credits: 4,5. Grading scale: UG. Assessment: Written and oral presentation of project.
Code: 0207. Name: Home Exercises and Attendence.
Credits: 3. Grading scale: UG. Assessment: Pass on all papers.

Admission

Admission requirements:

The number of participants is limited to: No
Selection: Credits remaining for the degree.
The course might be cancelled: If the number of applicants is less than 5.
The course overlaps following course/s: TEK175

Reading list

Contact and other information

Course coordinator: Tomas Brage, Tomas.Brage@fysik.lu.se
Course coordinator: Sara Goodman, Sara.Goodman@genus.lu.se
Further information: The course is conducted mainly by teachers from the Gender Studies Centre. Invited inspirational lectures will participate. The course is coordinated with the corresponding course at the Faculty of Science.