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Goals: There are 7 primary goals to this course.

1) Provide a broad introduction to the study of Earth systems.

Earth systems are complex being a result of interactions of biotic and abiotic factors. This will require us to bridge many disciplines, including:
-Chemistry
-Geology
-Botany
-Biology
-Ecology
2) Provide a practical working knowledge of techniques used in the study of Earth systems.
-Mapping
-Geological Interpretation
-Biological Sampling/Identification
3) Make you THINK! You will often be left with more questions than answers.
-Problem s in studying Earth Systems
-Challenges of evaluating study sites
-Global Ecological Problems
4) Introduce you to a new part of the world
-Sonoran Desert
-Colorado Plateau
-Grand Canyon -Biosphere 2
5) Appreciate Diversity.
Protect what you love
Love what you know
Know what you are exposed to.
Key to preservation and conservation is FAMILIARITY
6) Learn to think of ourselves as stewards of the Earth.
We are part of Earth system, but only component that can make conscious decisions about it.
7) FUN.
Course will be challenging Will also be enjoyable.

Expectations:

1) Take course seriously.
Lots of work.
Material comes very fast.
CanŐt afford to fall behind.
-We want you to have fun, but not at the expense of learning
2) Approach material and activities with an open mind.
Much of the material you will be exposed to will be completely new.
You will like somethings and dislike others.
Keep and open mind, and reserve judgment.
Will learn new things. Maybe even about yourself.
3) PARTICIPATE, PARTICIPATE, PARTICIPATE.
Learning is an active process. takes effort
Learning in the field is a HANDS ON. Have to be there.

We will be in the field looking at plants and animals, in the field mapping, and doing experiments in and around the Biosphere

YOU HAVE TO BE THERE. YOU HAVE TRY.
IT IS UNACCEPTABLE TO SIT AROUND AND WATCH

-it is gonna be hot and sunny
-dry
-uncomfortable at times

You will Make it.
Guarantee you will look back on these six weeks and smile
4) ASK QUESTIONS!
Learning is a process of inquiry. Ask questions about what you donŐt understand. Ask questions about what you want to understand better. If you are thinking it, likely someone else is, too.

Grading:

1) PARTICIPATION. 40%
As stressed above, you will not have a productive learning experience without it. Participate in Field, Laboratory, and Lecture activities.
Not just what you do, but also:
Enthusiasm and Willingness. KEEP WHINING TO MINIMUM
Interactions in Groups YOU LEARN FROM EACH OTHER
2) Group Presentations. 60%
There will be three presentations through out the course. These presentations will be the results of GROUP projects that you will be doing in the field or in Biosphere.
Grading will be based upon:
Effectiveness of presentation (style) Content
These projects are graded as groups, so must be a group effort.
Go Back to Earth Camp Course Notes Directory

Go Back to the Syllabus