Module 8: Science and Society

6 dot points across 3 inquiry questions, in syllabus order. Each dot point has a focused answer, with exam-style questions and worked answers where available.

Inquiry Question 1: How does society influence the focus of scientific research, and how does scientific research impact society?

Investigate how scientific evidence has shaped public policy in Australia, using case studies such as plain packaging, COVID-19 response, gun control or seatbelt laws

Evidence-based policy. Covers plain packaging, gun control, the COVID-19 response, the smoking transition, and worked HSC past exam questions on the science-policy interface.

8 min read →

Investigate the relationship between Indigenous knowledge systems and Western science, including how they can complement each other

Indigenous knowledge and Western science. Covers traditional ecological knowledge, fire management, navigation, native medicines, the AIATSIS code, and worked HSC past exam questions.

7 min read →

Investigate how international scientific bodies such as the IPCC translate science into policy advice, including the role of Australian contributions

IPCC. Covers how the IPCC works, how Australian researchers contribute, the Sixth Assessment Report, and worked HSC past exam questions on global science-policy translation.

7 min read →

Inquiry Question 2: Are there limits or boundaries to scientific research, and how are these determined?

Investigate how research ethics and the role of regulatory bodies, including the NHMRC, shape what scientific research can be conducted

Research ethics. Covers the NHMRC National Statement, human research ethics committees, the 3Rs animal code, the Australian Code for Responsible Research, and worked HSC past exam questions.

7 min read →

Investigate the role of conflicts of interest in scientific research, including industry funding and the responsibilities of scientists to disclose

Conflicts of interest. Covers tobacco industry funding, pharma trials, climate denial, AusVaxSafety, and worked HSC past exam questions on industry-funded research.

7 min read →

Inquiry Question 3: What are the responsibilities of scientists in regards to the communication and use of their research?

Investigate how scientific knowledge is communicated to the public, including the role of mass media, science journalists and expert bodies

Science communication. Covers the role of journalists, expert bodies, social media, the Conversation, ABC Science, common pitfalls, and worked HSC past exam questions.

7 min read →