Subject details

This subject will develop the following capabilities:

  1. An understanding of the role of scientific progress in modern and future society
  2. Improved critical analysis and problem solving skills
  3. Effective communication both orally and in writing

On successfully completing this subject, you will have a better understanding of the scientific method and using scientific principles, be able to describe what limits are imposed by physics to concepts commonly found in science fiction.

    • The History of Science Fiction
    • Suspended Animation & Cryogenics
    • Life, but not as we know it
    • Faster than Light Travel
    • Combat in space
    • Teleportation
    • Blackholes/Wormholes
    • Holography
    • Timetravel
    • Life in Zero Gravity

Others

A knowledge of secondary school mathematics is assumed

Special requirements

No special requirements

From Jules Verne to Star Trek, science fiction has proven to be remarkably prescient in developing new technologies, and shaping attitudes towards that technology. You will also study why certain predictions did not come true. This unit uses ideas from science fiction to inform and educate you about key concepts in science and technology in an on-mathematical way. You will explore not only the limits imposed by physics, but also some of the ways that science fiction has inspired ways to be at those limits. Examples include teleportation, quantum computing, time travel and warp drives.

This unit will enable you to better understand the role of science and technology  in shaping the future, gain an understanding of the scientific process, recognise the importance of multidisciplinary research teams for solving some of the society’s biggest technological challenges, and help them take their place in Designing the Future.

  • 11 on-line tests (55%)
  • Assignment (45%)

Textbook information is pending.

Related degrees

undergraduate RMI-SCI-DEG-2019

Bachelor of Science Applied Sciences