Integrated Education

The Core Science (CORS) classes are designed around a theme that students and faculty explore through an interdisciplinary lens. CORS courses address the impact of science on society, and the ethical dilemmas and moral consequences of scientific research. While CORS courses don’t include a formal lab, all CORS sections emphasize discussion, collaboration, and the conduct of science.

CORS courses are designed to meet the following learning objectives:

• Strengthen student understanding of the methodology of science so as to foster logical thinking about and the ability to make complex scientific and social decisions.
• Increase awareness of the nature and limitations of scientific knowledge.
• Emphasize the impact of science on society and the impact of society on science.
• Consider the ethical dilemmas and moral consequences of research that may confront the scientist.
• Create an understanding of the differences between belief and scientifically testable or validated results.
• Place scientific advances and issues in a historical context.
• Stress collaborative work and problem-solving techniques in providing the student with the opportunity to become actively engaged in conducting science.

CORS classes directly emphasize and are integrated with the five University-wide Learning Outcomes: learn and integrate, think and create, communicate, clarify purpose and perspective, practice citizenship.

Core Science classes carry three credits and fulfill a Natural Science requirement with no additional lab attached.

CORS course descriptions can be found here.

Part of the UI General Education Curriculum, the Capstone Experience is a culminating educational experience for seniors typically offered at the 400-level. It integrates the student's discipline, major or program of study with the UI General Educational Curriculum experiences through the University’s Learning Outcomes.

Examples of capstone experiences include capstone courses, internships, externships, student teaching, student research and service learning. For options, check with your academic advisor for listings within your major.

Capstone Experiences are one-semester long and include the following components:

• The experience integrates the goals, methods and outcomes of the student’s discipline/major/program of study with the University Learning Outcomes.
• The experience's learning activities (e.g., written paper, oral presentation, collaborative project, etc.) emphasize both the learning outcomes of the discipline/major and the University’s Learning Outcomes.
• The experience promotes effective use of information literacy and research skills, and oral and written communication skills.