In an effort to address the national need for an appreciation and understanding of how science, technology, engineering, and mathematics can help us face world challenges, Professor of Physics Jordan Goodman and his colleagues at the University of Maryland created "The Marquee Courses in Science and Technology." The courses, are for non-science majors, cover topics such as, weather and climate, global energy use, and modern medicine. By the end of the course, Goodman says the students should be able to:

1. Look at complex questions and identify the science in the question and how it impacts and is impacted by political, social, economic, and ethical dimensions.
2. Understand the limits of scientific knowledge.
3. Critically evaluate science arguments.
4. Ask good questions.
5. Find information using various sources and evaluate the veracity of the information.
6. Communicate scientific ideas effectively.
7. Relate science to a personal situation.