Introduction to Global Change I
NRE 110 / AOSS 171 / Biol 110 / Environ 110
Credits: 4

An interdisciplinary (team-taught) introduction to the evolution of life and the human species on Earth, with focus on problems of global change produced by recent human advances in technology and institutions. The discussion includes reference to evolution of the universe, the Earth and its environments; evolution of living organisms with their environments; ecological roles of organisms. Topics include: evolution of the universe, solar system; evolution of the planets and moons; evolution of life: fossils, geologic strata, impact of life processes on earth systems; evolution of complex life forms, eukaryotes; the cell, respiration and photosynthesis; atmospheres: paleoclimates and paleoclimate record, climate models; oceans: evolution, circultion, nutrients, sea level changes; land: lithosphere, vulcanism, plate tectonics, soils weathering; how green plants work: energy pathways, growth, development, reproduction; how animals work: function and anatomy, growth, development and reproduction; how animals work: function and anatomy, growth, development and reproduction; biogeochemical cycles: water, carbon, nutrient cycles; ecosystem dynamics: energy flows, examples of ecosystems; biosphere interactions: ozone and greenhouse warmings, acid rain, the Gaia Hyposthesis. Extensive use is made of multi-media presentation tools: videos, slides, etc. Course grade will be based on a midterm exam and a final exam, plus successful completion of the required weekly laboratory exercises. There are no prerequisites for this course and no science background is assumed. The course is appropriate for all first year students, irrespective of intended major.