GL 150 - Geology of the National Parks

Description
This course is an introduction to the geologic and cultural history of selected national parks. The course will present an overview of geologic concepts using the national parks as examples and relate the geology of these spectacular landscapes to cultural and environmental issues. Students will explore the geologic evolution and features of the selected parks and examine the complicated role humans play in their degradation and preservation.

Credit Hours: 3
Contact Hours: 3
Prerequisites/Other Requirements: None
English Prerequisite(s): None
Math Prerequisite(s): None
Course Corequisite(s): None
Academic Program Prerequisite: None
Consent to Enroll in Course: No Department Consent Required
Dual Enrollment Allowed?: Yes
Number of Times Course can be taken for credit: 1
General Education Requirement:
Natural Science-Non-Lab
General Education Learner Outcomes (GELO):
3. Critical Thinking: Gather and synthesize relevant information, evaluate alternative perspectives, or understand disciplinary strategies of creating knowledge., 4. Cultural Competence: Understand diverse interpersonal and cultural perspectives through analysis of scholarly or creative works., 7. Problem-Solving: Apply theory, calculation, or experimentation to demonstrate effective problem-solving.
Course Learning Outcomes:

Identify geologic features in a park and interpret them in the context of geologic processes. (GELO3)
Use geologic features of the park to interpret the geologic evolution of the region. (GELO3)
Analyze quantitative data collected in order to predict outcomes related to environmental impact on park resources including human activity. (GELO3)
Compare stewardship of park resources by past and present stakeholders to make recommendations that balance use with preservation. (GELO4)
Determine what natural process or human activity has the greatest environmental impact on the park. Predict the rate of change and make recommendations for mitigating the problem. (GELO7)

Course Outline:
I. Introduction to the Dynamic and Evolving Earth

A. Introduction to Basic Geologic Principles and Themes

B. The Scientific Method

II. Park 1

A. Location and Geologic Setting

B. Geologic and Cultural History