This course will examine the natural sciences through the lens of science fiction in literature and film. Weekly topics will explore scientific subjects and the role they play in science fiction. Students will apply the basics of the scientific method; evaluate the validity of scientific principles used in science fiction; and explore basic concepts of the natural sciences.
This course will examine environmental science through the lens of popular media including social media, literature, and film. Weekly topics will explore how films have been used as political tools and cultural influencers for environmental science. Students will explore how films and literature influence our modern environmental science culture, how to communicate with stakeholders, and how to apply the basics of the scientific method to evaluate the use of natural resources and environmental sciences.
This course explores four major areas of earth science: earth structure and function, astronomy, oceanography, and meteorology. Topics include change, cycles, equilibrium, energy, models, scale, systems, and the interdisciplinary nature of science. The associated laboratory investigates questions related to basic principles of geology, meteorology, astronomy, and oceanography and develops techniques relevant to these research areas. Prerequisites: None