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ENV300 Environmental Issues and Ethics … 4 credits
Students review the dynamic and interrelated properties and processes of the earth's physical and biological environment across a full range of scale from local to global. Known and potential effects on the earth's environment and natural systems resulting from human activity are discussed. From an ethical framework, students critically analyze and assess the impact their own lifestyle and consumer choices may have on the health and integrity of the earth's environment. (Prerequisite: BIO130)
ESC120 Observational Geology … 2 credits
This course emphasizes the observational nature of geology. Observations are made of sites near campus and sites more distant from campus. Observations are made of Minnesota's rocks and minerals and evidence of water, glacial, volcanic and earthquake activity in Minnesota's history. The course considers terms and concepts of geology, with special emphasis on use of the Internet and current geology literature. Observations result in being able to discover the history of each Minnesota site.
ESC140 Observational Astronomy … 2 credits
The course emphasizes the observational nature of astronomy. Observations are made of the moon, sun, stars and planets. Observations are made using star charts, computer programs, telescopes, 35 mm cameras and digital cameras. The course considers historical and modern astronomy, with special emphasis on the use of the Internet and current astronomy literature. Observations result in information on the location, motion and features of each of these objects.
ESC320 Physical Geology … 4 credits
This course considers the topics of physical geology. The topics include minerals, rocks, volcanoes, weathering, groundwater, glaciers, mountains and fossils. The techniques of data procurement, processing and analysis are considered and applied to the geology of Minnesota. A number of studies will be conducted at various Minnesota sites. Previous studies, current geology literature, use of the Internet and presentations by various experts of Minnesota geology will highlight the course. Short weekday field trips and extended weekend field trips will be part of the course. The course is applicable to anyone majoring in environmental science, education at all levels (especially outdoor education and science education), religion, science or having a general interest in travel, government, business or geology sites. Previous studies, current geology literature, use of the Internet and presentations by various experts of Minnesota geology will highlight the course. (Prerequisite: ESC120)
ESC340 Astronomy … 4 credits
This non-calculus-based course is a study of astronomy using physics concepts and a study of physics using astronomy concepts. The interrelationships between physics and astronomy will be examined from a historical viewpoint and a practical viewpoint in procuring and analyzing physics and astronomy information. Students make use of a great variety of physics and astronomy equipment and make use of the computer as applicable. The course includes opportunities for gathering, processing and analyzing astronomical data from our skies. The Internet and literature are used to obtain current information on physics and astronomy. This can be taken as a physics course or an astronomy course. (Prerequisite: ESC140)
ESC420 Geology Field Course: Black Hills … 2 credits
This course will consist of a one week on site study of the Black Hills area of South Dakota. The class will meet one session each week during the semester preceding the on site study. The course stresses application of the observational nature of geology and the techniques of data procurement, processing and analysis. (Prerequisite: ESC120 or ESC320)
ESC440 Research in Astronomy … 1-4 credits
The course applies the observational nature of astronomy to the study of astronomical objects. Students can elect to take the course for 1-4 credits depending on the studies selected. Studies can involve projects applicable to students from elementary to adult. Studies can involve observation with or without instrumentation. Studies can include use of a 35 mm camera with or without a telescope, use of binoculars, use of a telescope (8 inch or 14 inch reflector) and use of a CCD camera with a telescope for taking digital pictures of the sky. Each of the studies includes a literature search and report. The course is applicable to anyone majoring in education, religion, art, science, or having an interest in astronomy. (Prerequisite: ESC140 or ESC340)
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