BIO-139: Environmental Science Laboratory

School
Science, Technology, Engineering and Math
Division
Biological Science
Department
Biology
Academic Level
Undergraduate
Course Subject
Biology
Course Number
139
Course Title
Environmental Science Laboratory
Credit Hours
2.00
Instructor Contact Hours Per Semester
45.00 (for 15-week classes)
Student Contact Hours Per Semester
45.00 (for 15-week classes)
Grading Method
A-E
Pre-requisites
ENG-131 eligible
Catalog Course Description

Investigation of current environmental concerns. Particular focus will be given to the Rouge River watershed. Field trips to local sites during the lab period will be included. This course meets once a week for three hours of lab work.

Goals, Topics, and Objectives

Goal Statement

This course will present the fundamental concepts of environmental science. After completing this course students will be able to:

  • use scientific laws, principles, models, and concepts to understand environmental and resource problems and possible solutions.
  • understand how these concepts, problems and solutions are connected.
  • develop a list of principles, concepts, and rules to serve as guidelines in making decisions.
  • think logically and critically.
Core Course Topics
  1. Importance of Biodiversity
  2. Groundwater modeling
  3. Dichotomous keys
  4. Soil quality measurements
  5. Topographic maps
  6. Geographic Information System (GIS)
  7. Forestry measurements
  8. Rouge River watershed, biodiversity, and macroinvertebrates
  9. Energy conservation
  10. Service learning
  11. Population estimation
  12. Natural selection
  13. Greenhouse gases estimation
  14. Tragedy of the commons
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)

Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:

  1. Collect and analyze experimental data.
  2. Demonstrate use of critical thinking skills in the analysis of experimental data.
  3. Write a formal lab report using a standard format.
  4. Demonstrate familiarity with library resources and electronic media and use criteria with which to judge reliability of various resources.
  5. Recall and restate basic scientific facts and concepts, as listed in the individual unit objectives.
  6. Demonstrate proficiency in the use of basic laboratory equipment.
  7. Analyze current environmental problems.
  8. Interpret topographic maps
  9. Apply basic principles of Geographic Information System (GIS).
  10. Demonstrate safe handling of equipment and supplies.

Assessment and Requirements

Assessment of Academic Achievement

Assessment of academic achievement includes class participation, assignments, and formal papers.

Outcomes

General Education Categories
  • Natural Sciences
MTA Categories
  • Category 6: Natural Sciences (Lab Only)
Satisfies Wellness Requirement
No
Satisfies Honors Requirements
No
Effective Term
Fall 2025