Course

Course Summary
Credit Type:
Course
ACE ID:
OOSL-0055
Organization's ID:
ENV101
Organization:
Location:
Online
Length:
14 weeks (75 hours)
Dates Offered:
Credit Recommendation & Competencies
Level Credits (SH) Subject
Lower-Division Baccalaureate 3 environmental science
Description

Objective:

The course objective is to provide students with a comprehensive overview of the basic principles and unifying concepts of environmental science.

Learning Outcomes:

  • assess the various methods used to understand natural phenomena and the human impact on it, and analyze the steps taken to protect the environment
  • explain chemical cycles with reference to exchange of energy in chemical reactions and natural selection and evolution, and assess the effect of changes in the cycles on organisms
  • differentiate between various ecosystems, explain the interdependency of organisms within an ecosystem, and how changes in the environment can affect ecosystems
  • evaluate the impact of civilization on forests and grasslands, and assess how conservation efforts are useful in preserving species and restoration of habitats
  • analyze the use of and factors determining population characteristics of a species, explain the reasons for maintaining biodiversity, and evaluate the reasons for extinction of species
  • analyze human population growth and demography and assess its impact on the environment
  • analyze the problems of urbanization in developed and developing countries, and evaluate its implication on the environment
  • evaluate techniques of sustainable agriculture and the need for pest control, and explain how pesticides degrade the soil and therefore the environment
  • describe the hydrologic cycle, classify sources of water pollution, and analyze techniques for water conservation and management
  • analyze the impact of air pollution on the climate and on human beings, and evaluate measures to reduce pollution
  • assess the factors that determine energy consumption and use of fossil fuels, and evaluate its effect on global warming
  • explain various alternative sources of energy, compare them in terms of environmental issues, and appraise energy conservation methods
  • explain the concept of waste management and evaluate programs and policies to reduce the harmful effects of waste
  • analyze the various factors influencing the use of environmental resources
  • evaluate important local, national, and international policies, laws, and programs that aim to protect the environment.

General Topics:

  • Introduction to environmental science
  • Environmental ethics and justice
  • Environmental risk, economics, and sustainable development
  • Interrelated scientific principles: matter, energy, and environment
  • Interactions: environments and organisms
  • Ecosystems: communities and biomes
  • Population characteristics and issues
  • Energy and civilization: sources and patterns of consumption
  • Biodiversity issues
  • Land and soil issues: planning, use, and pollution
  • Water issues: planning, use, and pollution
  • Air issues: pollution, weather, and climate
  • Waste issues: management and health hazards
  • Environmental regulations and policies
Instruction & Assessment

Instructional Strategies:

  • Audio Visual Materials
  • Computer Based Training
  • Practical Exercises

Methods of Assessment:

  • Examinations
  • Quizzes

Minimum Passing Score:

70%
Supplemental Materials

Other offerings from StraighterLine

(OOSL-0009)
(OOSL-0010)
(OOSL-0063)
(OOSL-0109)