OCN 320 AQUATIC POLLUTION (WI)

Philosophy

Empower ourselves to make informed decisions regarding future environmental issues. 

Student Learning Objectives

Lecture

• Describe the important and diverse ways in which water systems interact with human activities.

• Recognize the fragility of Earth’s water systems and describe the challenges to balancing pristine ‘natural’ aquatic systems and human activities.

• Describe key ‘natural’ aquatic components and processes and the effects of human activity on these natural systems. 

• Identify the compromises society must make between protecting natural systems and providing for the vital needs of growing populations.

Writing

• Distinguish science writing from scientific writing and formulate examples of each.

• Distinguish between primary and secondary sources and recognize that students are writing as secondary sources.

• Interpret scientific data (figures, tables) relating to water quality and critically evaluate the validity of such data.

• Apply federal, state, local laws to issues of water quality and water usage.

• Recommend course of action in venues where public opinion is being solicited by the government.