ENV 1962 - ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES AND CHOICES

credits: 6.0
Environmental Issues and Choices is intended to provide learners with an appreciation and understanding of the interconnectedness of environmental issues that currently plague us: the Gulf of Mexico oil disaster and, climate change, and alternative and renewable energy. This course is intended to provide a basic scientific understanding of the environmental topics and an ability to critically assess these issues using the scientific method. Knowledge and understanding of these issues will help develop decision-making skills that will aid students in making more sustainable choices. Case studies and media stories help to illustrate the many environmental issues we face. By the end of this course students should be able to answer the questions “Why should I care?” and “What does it mean?” with respect to environmental issues in the media. Objectives: A) Explain ecological processes and illustrate how they help us to better understand how our planet functions; B) Identify human population and how our actions impact organisms, communities, and ecosystems; C) Explain the inter-connectedness of humans and ecosystems using the scientific method; D) Explain and critically analyze, information from media coverage; E) Explain how each of us plays a role in shaping the present and future, and local, regional, and global environments. Method of Instruction: Lecture, observations, written assignments, scientific and media articles, group discussions, and videos. Laboratory activities are appropriate for the non-science major. Method of Evaluation: Student participation in discussions, weekly articles, laboratory participation and short written reports, classroom interactions, term project (presentation), and three exams. COURSE FEE: $20.00.