Course Descriptions

Social and Cognitive Inquiry
The Social and Cognitive course, consisting of classes in World Civilizations and English, helps students develop critical academic skills through critical reading of assigned texts, various writing assignments, subjective and objective testing, and small group and whole class discussion. The World Civilizations component exposes students to a number of different teaching styles, including lecture and discussion formats. Students are also exposed to strategies for test-taking, paper writing, and managing the entire scope of the academic university environment (for example, interacting with professors, proper in-class behavior, attendance policies, student expectations, and student responsibilities). The integration of these two elements - content driven by reading and practical instruction in learning strategies - is accomplished in close cooperation with the Critical Inquiry instructors, insuring a consistent and interdisciplinary experience. The English component of the course has the same goals and procedures, but emphasizes reading, writing, and oral communication skills.

Quantitative Inquiry
The Quantitative Inquiry unit is designed to introduce and prepare students for the variety of math and computer based courses and decision-making skills. This course focuses on the competencies needed to meet University at Buffalo graduation requirements, pursue careers in areas that require a foundation in math and the sciences, or prepare for professions which require quantitative problem-solving and decision-making skills. Students receive instruction in a continuum of math skills ranging from basic Algebra and Statistics through College Calculus. Additional course components include Information Management, instruction in library and research skills, and instruction in the use of computers and the vast array of technological and computer-based resources available to and required of University at Buffalo students.

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