Writing in different formats is an important part of the NATS 101-GC course. Why?
“Writing in general education courses places students in an active relationship with the body of facts, ideas, and theories presented in courses and helps them develop a critical appreciation of the ways knowledge is acquired and used. Writing also develops the attitudes of mind essential to the wise and humane use of knowledge and intellectual skills: respect for evidence, reason, and the contingent nature of truth, open-mindedness; motivation, involving personal characteristics such as initiative, curiosity, and an appetite for learning; and the willingness to pursue a line of inquiry to its logical conclusion.” (The U of A General Catalog, 1995-97, p. 63.) In addition, reading and writing about scientific material helps you to fine-tune the skills of: describing observations precisely, articulating concepts clearly, evaluating evidence logically, and drawing sound conclusions. These are “life-long” skills you will need in the future, no matter who you are or what field you go into!
