Courses

An introduction to the basic relationships governing the existence of all living organisms, with emphasis on ecology and adaptation of representative life forms. Consideration is given to classification and surveys of the major plant and animal groups with emphasis on unifying elements and diversities.

A study of the structure and dynamics of ecosystems. Consideration of plant and animal populations in relation to physical, chemical, and biological factors affecting their interaction and productivity. Considerable laboratory time is devoted to the study of local ecosystems, field sampling techniques, and field trips to ecological research areas.

An exploration of various practical applications of biology in environmental management, monitoring, and remediation. Topics include many important areas of concern such as wildlife management, fisheries, forestry, agriculture, water and air pollution, and protection of endangered ecosystems. Various biological approaches to these are considered, such as population modelling, ecophysiology, microbiology techniques, biomonitoring, ecosystem health, and biodiversity inventories. The implications of environmental ethics and the role of Christian environmental stewardship are discussed.

This introductory environmental education course explores environmental learning approaches to be used in schools and field-based/outdoor educational settings. Using environmental learning approaches in class and in the field, students will develop reflexive and inquisitive thinking along with problem-solving approaches, develop communication, team-building and collaborative working skills, and develop skills and knowledge of forest, flora, and fauna. The course will examine environmental issues and learning approached from a local perspective and with respect to First Peoples Principles of Learning. (3-0)

An introduction to the materials and processes of the physical earth: rocks and minerals, earth structure and composition, plate tectonics, volcanology, seismology, crustal deformation, weathering and erosion, slope movement, sedimentation, wind and water processes, glaciation, and geologic time. Earth materials and processes are studied in the laboratory and in the field. This course is an environmental studies core requirement.

An introduction to human geography and the notion of globalization by exploring some of the major economic, political, social, cultural, environmental, and technological changes that have recently occurred at the global level and are shaping local places. The course is designed to provide students with better understanding of the variation, interaction, and interdependence of places, regions, people and their environments in a globalizing world; and to demonstrate how human geographers might consider and examine the concepts, forces, processes, issues, and ideas that are associated with global transformation.

Through an investigation of the fundamental concepts of earth systems science from a geographic perspective, students will develop confidence in using the scientific method. Emphasis in the course is placed on understanding the origins and development of Earth's surface features; the characteristics and circulations of Earth's atmosphere, including weather systems and global climates; and introducing the biophysical principles governing vegetation distribution patterns on Earth. Lab exercises will provide students hands-on opportunities to further develop their scientific literacy as it relates to earth systems science and beyond. This course is primarily intended for non-science majors.

An investigation of the scientific principles behind environmental issues and practical inquiry-based approaches to environment concerns in our local and global communities. The course integrates theoretical knowledge about the environment with real-life activities in a multitude of settings outside of the classroom to help students learn about complex interactions between human populations and their environments; and to inspire critical thinking about environmental challenges for today and future generations.

Principles of spatial and digital literacy applied to the geographic context of our contemporary world. In this course, students will discover the importance of place, spatial data collection, assessment of spatial patterns and principles of scale. Students will gain an understanding of the nature of geospatial data, and explore geospatial technologies such as GPS, mobile maps, satellite data and GIS. Students will discover digital cartography principles and spatial analysis techniques. Students will learn about applications of citizen science, digital humanitarianism and responding to humanitarian needs and crises through geospatial technologies.