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Dr. Linda Sigismondi Faculty
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Environmental Science

 

COURSE SYLLABUS

Spring 2013

January 14 - May 9, 2013
Lecture: MWF 10:30-11:20, 1:30-2:20
Lab: T 10:3012:20, 1:30-3:20
Environmental Science
NSC 22304 Sec 01 and 02
School of Science

Professor:  Dr. Linda Sigismondi
Phone:      740 245-7484
Email:       lindas@rio.edu
Office:      Kidd Hall 100B
Office Hours: MWF 2:30-3:20, Th 1:30-3:30

 

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is an interdisciplinary course that emphasizes the impact of humans on the environment. The course begins with a study of the structure and function of ecosystems. Then various environmental problems are examined including population growth, food supply, energy issues, water issues, air pollution, extinction, solid waste disposal, and hazardous materials. Students examine how culture and technology affect environmental policies. Students also do several group activities that require value judgments and decision-making about environmental issues.

PREREQUISITES:  None

CREDIT HOURS: 4

TEXTBOOK AND OTHER REQUIRED MATERIALS:

Berg, L.R, M.C. Hager and D.M. Hassenzahl.  2011.  Visualizing Environmental Science.  3rd Edition.  Wiley  ISBN-10: 0470569182

Sigismondi, L. 2013.  Environmental Science Lab Manual Spring 2013

Sigismondi, L.  2013.  Environmental Science Webpage.  http://www.rio.edu/lindas/

GENERAL EDUCATION OUTCOMES:

1.  Use appropriate critical thinking skills to solve problems.

2.  Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental concepts of mathematics and science, analytical ability, problem-solving capacity, and the use of the scientific method.


COURSE OUTCOMES:  The following outcomes have been adopted for this course.  All outcomes listed below have direct relevance to course material.  Upon completion of this course students are expected to:

  1. Understand what the environment is and how it works in terms of basic principles of biology, chemistry and physics.
  2. Understand the relationships between humans and the environment.
  3. Understand major environmental problems including their causes and consequences.
  4. Understand possible solutions to environmental problems and their pros and cons.