BIOL 34900 - Environmental Science

Examines current major environmental issues through an investigation of the biological and political aspects of human population growth, degradation of natural resources, and environmental regulations.

Cr. 3.
Notes
Cannot be used as a Group A or B elective for biology majors.
Student Learning Outcomes
1.  Explain how scientific explanations are formulated, tested, and modified or validated. We will formulate and test scientific hypotheses, then modify accordingly.
2.  Distinguish between scientific and non-scientific evidence and explanations. We will explore the controversy surrounding climate change to illustrate the application and value of the scientific evidence as opposed to less rigorous approaches.
3.  Apply foundational knowledge and discipline-specific concepts to address issues or solve problems. We will develop foundational knowledge about environmental issues to allow you to identify challenges and potential solutions to promote sustainability.
4.  Apply basic observational, quantitative, or technological methods to gather data and generate evidence-based conclusions. We will evaluate quantitative data to understand the outcomes of various anthropogenic impacts on the environment.
5.  Use current models and theories to describe, explain, or predict natural phenomena. We will utilize current models and theories to understand climate change.
6.  Locate reliable sources of scientific evidence to construct arguments related to real-world issues. For your term paper, you will find and use peer-reviewed scientific literature to identify challenges and potential solutions to an environmental challenge.