ESA-20806 Principles of Environmental Sciences

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Studiepunten 6.00

OnderwijstypeContacturen
Lectures28
Project learning18
Course coordinator(s)dr. ir. AJH van Vliet
Lecturer(s)dr. ir. AJH van Vliet
dr. ir. CSA van Koppen
Examiner(s)dr. ir. AJH van Vliet
dr. ir. CSA van Koppen

Language of instruction:

English

Contents:

This course offers students the opportunity of updating and extending their knowledge of the basic concepts of environmental sciences. Environmental problems in soil, water, and atmosphere are described and analysed. Attention is given to the socio-economic causes of these problems and their effects on organisms (including man) and ecosystems. The role science and technology can play in solving these problems is discussed, as is the role of interested actors such as government, business, environmental movement and individual citizens. In a case study, small groups of students analyse a specific environmental problem, write a report and present a paper.

Learning outcomes:

Upon completion of the course, students are expected to be able to demonstrate insight in the principles of environmental sciences, including:
- the functioning of natural systems;
- causes of environmental changes;
- impacts of environmental changes on natural systems and human society;
- possible technical solutions to environmental problems and their limitations;
- the societal context of environmental problems.
In addition students are expected to be able:
- to integrate and apply knowledge from the social and natural sciences by analysing a particular environmental issue, theme or policy;
- to apply basic academic and communicative skills and experience which skills should be improved.

Activities:

Attending lectures, active participation in a group assignment, report writing and presentation of a paper.

Examination:

Based on written examination and group assignment.

Literature:

Book: Cunningham & Cunningham: Principles of Environmental Science and a course book on Environment & Society.

OpleidingFaseSpecialisatiePeriode
Keuze voor: MESEnvironmental SciencesMSc1AF, 4WD
MGIGeo-Information ScienceMSc1AF