Environmental Geology Course Notes

w1/l1 Course Overview

  • Syllabus Discussion

    • Minimal details will be covered regarding the syllabus during the first class.

    • More details will be provided on Monday with a focus on important points.

    • There will be a syllabus quiz to ensure understanding of class logistics, communication, and academia at Miami University.

    • Students are encouraged to ask questions and interrupt during discussions for clarity.

Syllabus Details

  • Syllabus Quiz

    • Students will have two weeks to complete the syllabus quiz, allowing ample time to understand course requirements.

  • Learning Objectives

    • Each lecture will begin with a series of learning objectives relevant to that session.

    • Learning objectives will be used as a study guide for exam preparation.

Examinations and Assignments

  • Examinations

    • There will be a total of three exams:

    • Two midterms

    • One final exam

  • Weekly Assignments

    • Assignments may range from one to three per week.

    • Assignments include:

    • Short quizzes

    • Multiple choice questions (typically around 20 questions)

    • Quantitative assignments

    • Assignments will be explained further during class on Monday.

    • Completing assignments is linked to performing well on exams, as they reduce study time needed for exams due to consistent engagement with course material.

Introduction to Environmental Geology

  • Course Focus

    • The course will initially introduce Environmental Geology.

    • Topics will include the motivation behind environmental geology, identifying and describing factors that influence human impact on the environment, and conversely, how earth affects human lives.

  • Instructor Background

    • The instructor is a volcanologist, specializing in volcanoes, and also teaches geochemistry.

    • Description of courses:

    • Environmental geology: Integrative course covering a broad range of topics.

    • Volcanology: An upper-level (400-level) course.

    • Geochemistry: A joint-level course focusing on chemical processes in geological contexts.

Earth System Components

  • Discussion Points

    • The course will investigate and debate various components of the Earth system.

    • This includes essential terms and concepts that define the Earth as a system.

  • Scientific Methodology

    • Examination of how science functions and its importance in identifying and addressing environmental issues.