STSC 008 The Science of Sport (CWiC)
Offered:Fall 2008
Johnson T 3-6
Critical Speaking Seminar
Did Lance Armstrong use drugs or not? Why do Kenyans win marathons? Does Gatorade really work? In this course, we won’t answer these questions ourselves but will explore the world of scientists who do. These scientists produce knowledge about how human bodies work and the intricacies of human performance. They bring elite (world-class) athletes to their laboratories—or their labs to the athletes. Through readings and video screenings, we will find out how these scientists determine the boundary between “natural” and “performance-enhanced,” work to conquer the problem of fatigue, and establish the limits and potential of human beings. Course themes include: technology in science and sport, the lab vs. the field, genetics and race, the politics of the body, and doping. While we will focus in class on the science of endurance sports, you will investigate the relationship between science and the sport of your choice for your final project.
This is a Critical Speaking Seminar. In addition to reading about the science of human performance, you will have your own experiences as performing humans, experimenting with several forms of speaking. The oral communication assignments are designed to be both practical and interesting, and we will focus on the art of faking confidence. Requirements will include meeting with a speaking adviser, receiving peer feedback, and reviewing a video of one of your presentations.
