Faculty Syllabus

Instructional Methodology: This course is taught in the In-Person format with the following components:

• Required internet access and use of ACC email and Blackboard
• Online requirements include (most importantly for exams)
  • Use a laptop or desktop computer.  DO NOT use a mobile device (iPad, phone, tablet)
  • Use Chrome or Firefox browsers. Internet Explorer is not recommended.
• Course is based on text, news articles, and informative videos with use of reflection questions, discussions, assignments, and exams for assessment of understanding.
• Course schedule includes specified due dates for all course work, be sure to follow these dates. You (the student) are responsible for keeping up with the calendar and Blackboard announcements from me.
• Completion of all course work is online within Blackboard, including exams. 
• Attendance and participation in course lectures and classroom activities is an important component of the course.  Class attendance will be taken and recorded. 

Book:  25 Myths That Are Destroying the Environment by Daniel B. Botkin

Topic Review Questions encourages keeping up with course material and emphasizes course topics to be covered in exams. Participation will contribute to the student’s overall course grade. There are a minimum of two review threads due per module. Submissions must be entered by midnight on the due date.  

*Note- You cannot edit an already posted thread. So, if you notice a mistake or would like to add more info to your original post, just click “reply” to your thread and I can see it all at once when grading.

Assignments: There will be three throughout the semester relevant to the topics covered within each module. Assignments are due by midnight on the due date (see syllabus for specific dates). Answer questions in complete sentences. USE YOUR OWN WORDS. Make sure you proof read before sending. Points will be deducted for lack of organization, and proper spelling.  Be mindful to only submit what is ready for grading. Blackboard will not allow you to edit or resubmit once the assignment is turned in. No late assignments will be accepted.

Writing Requirements: Students writing will reflect clarity, conciseness, and proper formatting expected of college level academic course work. Any and all electronic submissions must be typed and submitted within Blackboard (do not email me a file, or upload pictures of written work). In Blackboard, click “create submission” and enter text in the provided space.

Earth Systems & Processes

Myths 1-3, 4, 5, 7, 11, 12, 18, 19, Energy, Nuclear Energy, Energy Disasters, Energy Alternatives, Solar & Wind 

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES AND GENERAL EDUCATION COMPETENCIES

Upon successful completion of course requirements students are expected to be able to describe and define:

1. Major earth systems processes (atmosphere, hydrosphere, biosphere, geosphere)
2. Ecosystem processes and function
3. Biodiversity and species loss
4. Major energy sources, uses and challenges
5. Renewable energy sources, technology, and challenges.
6. Challenges and potential solutions to environmental issues that are controversial in American society; critical thinking will be used to scientifically “resolve” these issues and students will examine the technical and ethical problems that arise from these issues and their possible solutions.