Seminar, with a required research paper, on the relationship between science and technology and society. Topics, one each course, include Hiroshima and Nagasaki, arms race, arms control, science and social responsibility, politics of science, scientific advice to government, civilian uses of nuclear energy. Students conduct historical research in a seminar context, using both primary and secondary source materials, to produce an original and substantial research paper.
4
UnitsLetter
Grading1, 2, 3
PasstimeUpper division only
Level LimitLetters and science
CollegeBest professor and speaker I've ever seen. He is engaging and passionate about what he teaches, making classes interesting yet simple. Midterms and final are a lot of writing but it's not too bad. Attending lectures is pretty important as he doesn't put a lot on the slides. TAs are very helpful in section. Great GE and I enjoyed the class!
If you are a science major and need a GE, this course is perfect. McCray is an amazing lecturer, but you have to go to lecture since all notes are on what he says. Midterms and final are all essays, and the grading was a bit difficult, but if you pay attention in lecture, attend section, and skim the readings, you will do good in this class.
Very clear, organized lectures. Attend them because he's good, and because the slides are mostly just pictures. Amazing TA's who had chill sections and were clear on exam expectations. Everything about the class was pretty low stress
One of the best GEs. Straightforward & kind with clear expectations on how to succeed. He mostly posted pictures with no text so ATTEND LECTURE! 2 exams with 2-3 opened ended questions. 1 6-page paper. Weekly self-assessment questions. Workload felt heavy at times, but easy overall. Section leaders are tough on participation. Don't talk in class.
Absolutely one of my favorite teachers here at UCSB. I would love to take another class. He was very clear in lectures, and when it came to midterms and finals I felt like I knew the information. Attend lectures and sections because that will help a lot.
This class was incredibly fair. The best part was the midterm set up. We were able to choose between multiple topics to write on which made the tests surprisingly fun. Biggest advice Id give is to attend lectures and to think of the bigger picture, relating pieces of evidence to the many cool technological concepts discussed. 100/10 recommended!