GEOL 101 - Introduction to the Earth Sciences

Units: 3 ; Breadth Area: GE-B1; Sustainability
Introduction to the nature and evolution of the solid Earth, its composition and structure, geologic systems and deep time, hazards and resources, the hydrosphere, atmosphere and our solar system, evolution and human interaction with the planet now and the future.

Strongly Recommended Preparation: Optional concurrent enrollment in GEOL 102.
Credit Restrictions: Not for Geology or Environmental Sciences major or minor credit; not open to students with credit for GEOL 100.
Equivalent Quarter Course: GEOL 1001.
Possible Instructional Methods: Entirely On-ground.
Grading: A-F or CR/NC (student choice).
Breadth Area(s) Satisfied: GE-B1 - Lower Division Physical Science, Overlay - Sustainability
Course Typically Offered: Fall & Spring

Student Learning Outcomes - Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

The Lecture component of this course has the following student learning outcomes: Demonstrate an appreciation and understanding of the fundamental principles of the Earth Sciences by applying these core ideas to analyze natural processes. In this course these fundamental principles and knowledge include:
Geologic - Plate Tectonic Theory and plate-tectonic boundaries, rock-types, their formation and distribution, deformation, geologic time and the major surficial systems - fluvial, glacial + desert;
Oceanographic - Oceans, their physiography and current systems, tides;
Meteorologic - Weather and climate and interactions with both geologic processes and the oceans, and finally;
Astronomic - Earth as part of the Solar system and the neighboring planets.

B1. Physical Science Learning Outcomes

Demonstrate knowledge of scientific theories, concepts, and data about the physical sciences;
demonstrate an understanding of scientific practices, including the scientific method; and
describe the potential limits of scientific endeavors, including the accepted standards and ethics associated with scientific inquiry.

Sustainability Overlay Learning Outcomes

identify the environmental, social, and economic dimensions of sustainability, either in general or in relation to a specific problem;
analyze interactions between human activities and natural systems;
describe key threats to environmental sustainability; and
explain how individual and societal choices affect prospects for sustainability at the local, regional, and/or global levels.