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.

Possible Instructional Methods: On-ground, or Hybrid, or Online Asynchronous or Online Synchronous.
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:

Apply geologic principles to explain plate tectonic theory and plate-tectonic boundaries, rock-types, their formation and distribution, deformation, geologic time and the major surficial systems;
Use observational data from the oceans to describe their physiography and current systems, tides;
Interpret weather and climate and interactions in combination with geologic processes and the oceans;
Recognize the place of Earth in the Solar system and compare Earth with 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;
explain how individual and societal choices affect prospects for sustainability at the local, regional, and/or global levels.