Introduction to Earth System Science

Catalog description

This course employs a systems approach to exploring the structure and function of Earth. By studying the geosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, and biosphere, students learn how these systems interact in the one integrated Earth system and how human impacts affect all of these systems. In addition, students are asked to apply course concepts to their local areas and own experiences and to critically consider our species’ impact on the planet. Varied perspectives on course topics will be explored through in-class activities, videos, and individual research for required assignments in addition to through the course textbook. Class will meet weekly for 90 minutes online using a Zoom classroom. Students can expect to learn through reading; viewing; in-class and online discussion; in-class individual, small-group, and whole-group activities; eight online activities; three bi-weekly projects; and a final project.