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A Recipe for Invention

Scientist (and Engineer) Biographies

By Traci E. Morris, Susannah Gal

A Recipe for Invention


 

Abstract

In this case study, designed to help break down stereotypes about scientists and engineers, students research the personal and professional lives of researchers in their field. The case was designed for use in high school to graduate courses in a variety of scientific disciplines, including molecular biology, biochemistry, geology, chemistry, psychology, mathematics, computer science, engineering, and anthropology. In the teaching notes, the authors provide lists of scientists for each of these disciplines as well as suggestions for classroom activities that can be used in various combinations to build on the students’ biographical research.

   

Date Posted

05/07/2003

Overview

Objectives

  • To allow students an understanding of the human side of science.
  • To encourage an understanding of the history of a scientific field.
  • In certain cases, to show how changing biases, politics and wars, economics, and technology can greatly affect science.

Keywords

Famous scientists; engineers; inventors; biography; sociology of science

  

Subject Headings

Anthropology
Biology (General)
Chemistry (General)
Computer Science
Engineering (General)
Geology
Mathematics
Medicine (General)
Molecular Biology
Physics
Psychology
Science (General)
Science Education

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

High school, Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division, Graduate

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

History of science, Women in science

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Discussion, Student Presentations

 

 

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