GEOL 120 - Introduction to Oceanography

Units: 3 ; Breadth Area: GE-B1; Sustainability
Origin of ocean basins, nature of the sea floor, physical/chemical characteristics of sea water, formation of water waves, ocean currents, marine life, relationships between humans and the sea.

Credit Restrictions: Not for Environmental Sciences major credit; not for Geology major or minor credit,
Equivalent Quarter Course: GEOL 1201.
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:

Demonstrate an understanding of the fundamental principles of oceanography by applying these core ideas and skills:
Explain the interrelationships between the oceans and other Earth Systems,
Describe the formation of seafloor features and the cycle of ocean basins,
Analyze and evaluate scientific data to create a conclusion about oceanographic processes,
Predict the distribution of organisms based on physical and chemical hydrographic data,
Evaluate the interactions between humans and the ocean.

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.

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