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
- Topographic maps
- Geographic Information System (GIS)
- Energy – Watts Up
- Rouge River water quality
- Groundwater modeling
- Forestry measures
- Service learning
- Soil quality measurements
Core Course Learning Objectives (Separated)
Upon successful completion of this course, students should be able to:
- Collect and analyze experimental data.
- Demonstrate use of critical thinking skills in the analysis of experimental data.
- Write a formal lab report using a standard format.
- Demonstrate familiarity with library resources and electronic media and use criteria with which to judge reliability of various resources.
- Recall and restate basic scientific facts and concepts, as listed in the individual unit objectives.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of basic laboratory equipment.
- Analyze current environmental problems.
- Interpret topographic maps
- Use Geographic Information System (GIS).
- Demonstrate safe handling of equipment and supplies.
Assessment and Requirements
Assessment of Academic Achievement
Assessment of academic achievement may include participation (discussion and critiques), readings, assignment and formal papers.
Outcomes
General Education Categories
- Natural Sciences
Institutional Outcomes
- Scientific Reasoning
MTA Categories
- Category 6: Natural Sciences (Lab Only)
Satisfies Wellness Requirement
No
Approval Dates
Effective Term
Winter 2023
Review Semester
Winter 2023