Ecological Change & Society

Course Code:
EST 300
Course Group(s):
Analytical Reasoning & Scientific Inquiry - Integrated, Degree Applicable, ECM: Environmental Issues Electives, Integrative Studies: ENST Program Options, Integrative Studies: NRCM Program Options, Integrative Studies: PACM Program Options, Integrative Studies: SCWL Program Options, Liberal Arts and Science Elective, NRCM: Cultural Perspective Cluster, SCM: Minor Electives, Social & Cultural Engagement - Integrated
Course Description:
This course translates, applies and interprets critical concepts from global change science so that the non-scientific community might become better informed in the policy decision- making arena. Students will examine the natural and anthropogenic changes taking place in the totality of the earth's environment across spatial and temporal scales. Students will deepen their understandings of interrelationships and connections between biogeochemical processes in various parts of the earth system, and discuss change mechanisms, tipping points and possible mitigation and adaptation solutions to the tremendous challenges posed by anthropogenic climate change. The course will examine long-term records of global change, as well as focusing on near-past human societies that have successfully or unsuccessfully adapted to changing environmental conditions. We will assess global change models for implications regarding vulnerability of human society and non-human ecosystems to potential change and for insight into strategies for future sustainability. Prerequisite: Social Cultural-Foundation and Analytical Reasoning & Scientific Inquiry-Reinforcing Completes General Education Requirements:SC-I, AR-I, LAS.
Credit:
3
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