ENV 122 - Environmental Biology

AA Approved

STANDARD CREDIT TYPE
4 credit(s)

Exploration of environmental science from a biological perspective. Participants will learn basic biological concepts of ecology, including adaptation and evolution of species, ecology of soils, aquatic and marine systems, nutrient and energy cycles (including renewable and non-renewable energy), biodiversity, conservation practices, species population cycles (including human population growth), global climate behavior, some toxicology, and more. The course goal is to provide basic training in the process of science and equip students with the skills and information they need to make informed decisions about the increasing amount of science and technology in their lives. There will be many opportunities to apply knowledge to daily life and current issues. Students will acquire skills to enable them to participate in research - both experimental and observational.

Course Learning Outcomes

Explain key concepts in environmental science, including ecology, natural selection and evolution, biogeochemical cycles, energy, natural resources, etc.
Discuss environmental policy past and present and assess its societal context both locally and globally
Identify current key environmental issues such as resource use and management, agricultural practices, waste management, biodiversity, and the need for conservation, impacts of technology, etc.
Demonstrate the ability to work in an indoor laboratory and outdoor field setting and use empirical and quantitative skills to observe and analyze natural phenomena.