Introduction to Environmental Science
The aim of this course to provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills to deal critically with our rapidly changing environment and to evaluate risks associated with the decisions we make and the solutions we formulate.Thus the primary emphasis will be on developing an understanding of concepts rather than on memorizing terms and technical details.
Essential to this conceptual understanding are the following: a grasp of science as a process rather than an accumulation of facts; personal experience in scientific inquiry; recognition of themes that integrate the major topics of ecology; and application of biological knowledge and critical thinking to environmental and social concerns.
This course is divided into the following six units:
1. Introduction to Environmental Science
2. Ecology
3. Biological and Human Populations
4. Earth Systems and Resources
5. Energy and Resource Consumption
6. Pollution