Didactics of Information Technology (IT) in a Science Degree: Conceptual Issues and Practical Application

Abstract

Information technology has been transforming various disciplines of life sciences and physical sciences as a tool (for "doing" science) and a technique (for conducting experiments and creating models). This evolution in the application of IT in science demands that science students be equipped with appropriate IT skills and that the development of these skills should begin as early as possible in the program of their science studies. This article reflects on an enabling IT unit designed to develop IT skills among first-year students in a Specialist Science Degree at Victoria University in Australia; students in the Degree share a common first year and then choose a specialization, for instance biotechnology, chemistry, or ecology and environmental management. The article outlines the conceptual framework that underpinned the development, in particular the approach to making IT knowledge and skills relevant to students of different specializations, details the pilot implementation of t