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Introduction to Environmental Science, 2017 edition

revised edition

Introduction to Environmental Science (ENSC 1000)

The newest revision of this textbook is available at: http://libguides.gcsu.edu/ENSC1000

The first edition (2015) of this textbook is available at: http://libguides.gcsu.edu/ENSC1000-first-ed

Course Description

AREA D FOR NON-SCIENCE AND SCIENCE MAJORS. Course uses basic principles of biology and earth science as a context for understanding environmental policies and resource management practices.

Course Description and Objectives

Course Description

This course uses the basic principles of biology and earth science as a context for understanding environmental policies and resource management practices. Our planet is facing unprecedented environmental challenges, from oil spills to global climate change. In ENSC 1000, you will learn about the science behind these problems; preparing you to make an informed, invaluable contribution to Earth’s future. I hope that each of you is engaged by the material presented and participates fully in the search for, acquisition of, and sharing of information within our class.

Environmental Science Laboratory (ENSC 1000L) is a separate class and students will receive a separate grade for that course.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

  • Evaluate the diverse responses of peoples, groups, and cultures to environmental issues, themes and topics.
  • Use critical observation and analysis to predict outcomes associated with environmental modifications.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the causes & consequences of climate change.
  • Apply quantitative skills to solve environmental science problems.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of environmental law and policy.
  • Design and critically evaluate experiments.
  • Interpret data in figures and graphs.

Open Education Resources

These course materials were originally created by Georgia College and State University Environmental Sciences Department --Caralyn Zehnder, Kalina Manoylov, Allison Rick VandeVoort, Christine Mutiti, and Samuel Mutiti-- along with librarian Donna Bennett.  The project was funded by an Affordable Learning Georgia Transformation at Scale Grant (2015).  Revised by Kalina Manoylov, Allison Rick VandeVoort, Christine Mutiti, Samuel Mutiti and Donna Bennett (2017.)