Emphasis is on scientific principles and the representation of environmental systems and system interactions using diagrams, graphs, and models. The goal of this course is to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, identify and evaluate environmental problems, and examine means to ecological sustainability. Outcomes will include an integrative understanding of energy and biogeochemical transfers and conversions in ecological processes, ecosystem change and developmental processes, anthropogenic interactions with ecological processes, and the vital role of cultural, social, and economic factors in addressing environmental problems. The field component integrates laboratory and field techniques in situations that allow firsthand investigation. Included is study of a major wetland ecosystem and the methodology for writing a local natural history of a school yard or city block whose purpose is to gain insight into the ecological relations of a local site as experienced by a teacher or student.
Work is supported with a scientific and reflective journal kept by each participant.
The additional course credit is earned by writing an exemplary natural history of a local site. One to three university credits. 9-12 a.m., Monday through Friday. This seminar, taught in French, will present current information on immigration and assimilation in France. Pedagogical material will be appropriate for teaching beginning through advanced level high school students.