Students are encouraged to evaluate suggested solutions to problems identified on the basis of sound ecology principles. Locational characteristics, physiography, the resource base, scenic attractions, population, and the economy are considered with a view toward regional development. The study of weather elements, the weather map, and a survey of the climates of the world. Application of coordinate systems and geocoding, vector and raster data structures, algorithms for the analysis of surfaces, error modeling, and data uncertainty to environmental issues. Digital image processing using a raster geographic information system.
Emphasis is placed on the interaction between people and the physical process.
An analysis is made of the human perception of disasters as well as preparedness and recovery planning. Emphasis is placed on the role of technology in altering natural processes and how society copes with the increasing risks posed to life, limb, and property. Population growth leads to increased levels of resource depletion. Human population dynamics are analyzed and an examination is made of the relationships among human population dynamics, resource depletion, and pollution. An examination is made of the urban environments.