Environmental Science covers a variety of issues that relate to the environment and the human impact on the ecosphere. The course will examine the various biotic and abiotic factors that contribute to the environment and its health. We will look at the various biomes and climates that cover the Earth and the factors that distinguish them. We will also focus on human activities and their effects on the environment, including discussion of global climate change, deforestation, extinctions caused by human encroachment, etc.
Course Learning Outcomes
At the completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Apply the scientific method and conduct scientific inquiry and gathering of data
Describe the structure of the Earth’s interior and explain how different layers are identified
Identify the composition of various types of rocks and minerals
Explain the processes of weathering and erosion and its impacts on surface features
Identify the roles of various agents of erosion, including running water, glaciers, wind, etc.
Relate plate tectonics and the dynamic earth to earthquakes, volcanoes and the formation of mountains
Interpret data relating to earthquakes such as p and s waves and Richter scale values
Explain the structure and composition of the atmosphere, including its other features, such as temperature, air pressure and moisture
Identify the effects of air pressure, temperature, wind and other meteorological date on weather and weather patters
Interpret the effects of air masses moving air masses and fronts on weather and on weather disturbances such as hurricanes and tornadoes
Describe the characteristics of various types of climates
Discuss the impact of human activity on the weather and climate on Earth, including the concepts of greenhouse gas emission and its effect on global climate
Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
