DESCRIPTION

This is an introductory course in the study of the interactions between human activities and the earth and geologic processes. An overview of modern geologic concepts is followed by an in-depth examination of natural hazards, natural resources, waste management, environmental restoration and land-use planning. This course provides instruction in applied geology and scientific reasoning that is useful to all students.

INSTITUTIONAL LEARNING GOALS

The following IVCC institutional learning goals will be addressed in this course:

• Communication - to communicate effectively.
• Inquiry - to apply critical, logical, creative, aesthetic, or quantitative analytical reasoning to formulate a judgement or conclusion.
• Responsibility - to recognize how personal choices affect self and society

COURSE OUTCOMES

By the end of the semester you will be able to:

1. Understand how science works and the characteristics of environmental geology.
2. Understand hazardous geologic processes and the interactions between humans and those processes.(Including rivers, slopes, earthquakes, volcanoes, and coastal processes.
3. Understand geologic resources and the interactions between humans and those processes. (Including soil, surface water, groundwater, energy resources, and mineral resources.)
4. Understand human impact on the environment and the environment’s impact on human health.
5. Understand the resources available for the study of geologic processes. (Maps, public information resources, and publications.)
6. Express insight and judgement with regard to future options that may resolve environmental concerns.