science @ gcc

Our mission

We live in an increasingly sophisticated scientifically driven culture where so many aspects of the sciences impact every day life.  From the food we eat to the cars we drive to the items we purchase to the health care we receive, it is of vital necessity in a democracy that citizens understand the benefits and tradeoffs of advances in the sciences.  We feel that there is a considerable lack of information and general level of public misinformation concerning the sciences.  We argue that it is of the utmost importance that citizens become scientifically literate and learn the skills necessary to gather and evaluate critical scientific information required for informed decision making. 

The mission of the science department is to have our students:

• Learn specific and accurate up-to-date information required to be competent in the sciences.
• Learn how to use rational, analytical thought to creatively and critically solve problems and engage in an informed intelligent discourse regarding scientific issues.
• Be able to work both independently and cooperatively.
• Be able to question the evidence that has been used to draw scientific theories and conclusions.
• Be able to understand how science works by investigating scientific technique and the scientific method and perform experiments with the aid of scientific tools and techniques.
• Increase their interest in and appreciation of science in a directed learning environment.
• Make connections between academia and real life science which will aid in decision making on the personal and political level.
• Experience the empirical world by using scientific tools and techniques to gather, interpret and analyze data.

In addition, our mission includes the provision of curricula appropriate for transfer to four year institutions. We also strive to advise and provide guidance to students in their selection of academic courses and help them to clarify their academic and career goals in the sciences and elsewhere.