Course Description: This is a hybrid course, meaning that the lecture material is presented on-line through Blackboard and the labs are held weekly in Ochoco 210. The course is divided into four learning modules: marine geology, chemical and physical oceanography, marine biology and the ocean interface. This course is designed for non-science majors. Lecture: 3, Lab: 2, Credits: 4.
Assumed prior knowledge: Ability to speak and understand and read the English language at the college level. Ability to work basic algebra using a calculator (equivalent to one year of high school algebra).
GS 108 Oceanography Course Outcome Statements
1) Students will have an effective understanding of the basic concepts, processes, and analytic tools as they are currently understood in the science of oceanography. These include fundamental scientific theories such as plate tectonics and the origin and evolution of planet Earth including it’s oceans. GS 108 will expose students to a diversity of topics within the realm of oceanography and explore the relationships among other scientific disciplines. (ex: chemistry of water in oceanography; physics principles of motion as applied to waves, tides and currents)
2) Through inquiry-based, hands-on laboratory activities and field experiences students will develop specific experimental skills and knowledge leading to the ability to identify, implement, and interpret scientific information as it relates to oceanography. Students will apply their knowledge and skills and employ logical scientific methodologies in a variety of numerical and descriptive problem solving situations.
3) Students will enhance their communication skills through oral and written activities such as poster presentations, term papers, computer presentations, test essay questions, interactive questioning and lab write-ups.
4) Students will be able to evaluate and articulate the application and relevance of specific oceanographic topics to the world around them at a personal, community, and global level. As a result, students will understand the significant role of science and oceanography in particular in modern society. Moreover, students will become more scientifically literate citizens capable of formulating informed logical opinions regarding the application of science and technology to solving such problems as pollution, energy demands, minerals extraction, and population growth.
Course Syllabus
Instructor: Dr. Bob Reynolds
Office: Room 237 Ochoco Hall Phone: 383-7557
Introduction. Compared to our neighbors in space, Earth is a very unusual planet. We have an abundance of liquid water that is unsurpassed in our solar system. Without that water it is unlikely that our planet could support life. In addition, Earth's solid outer surface has been undergoing profound changes for billions of years, much of it as a result of water moving through the hydrologic cycle and rocks recycling through the process of plate tectonics. Many of the processes that shape this planet exert a profound influence on the coastal areas here in the Pacific Northwest. Until recently much of the evidence for global scale geologic, biologic and atmospheric processes remained a secret of the ocean. Moreover, some of humankind’s greatest explorations have involved traveling over and beneath vast uncharted distances across the ocean. Unfortunately, it has become apparent that humans are having a great impact on the ocean from the resources we take from the sea to pollutants we unwittingly place into the ocean. Because the ocean provides us with a source of food, recreation, an avenue of transportation and a way of life, it seems only appropriate that we take the time to examine and understand the nature of the world's ocean.
This is a college level survey course in the science of oceanography and will cover topics from the four main areas of oceanography: geological, physical, chemical and biological. My goals are to introduce you to some of the important concepts of oceanography and to show you how we can use our knowledge of the ocean to better understand the Earth. You should be aware that there is a significant amount of material that will be covered in this course. In order to do well, you will need to spend an appropriate amount of time reading the text and studying. Knowledge of basic high school algebra (equivalent to Math 60) is assumed for all GS courses. If you experience difficulty along the way, feel free to stop by my office for help.
lava flows are an important component of Pacific Northwest coasts
You should be aware from advising that GS108 Oceanography is one of several courses that can be used to fulfill the science requirement for an associates degree at COCC. Knowledge of basic high school algebra (equivalent to Math 60) is assumed for all GS courses.
Lab. The lab is designed to give you hands-on experience with the processes and concepts of oceanography. We will be using maps and data sets extensively. Each lab will begin with a brief introduction. The remainder of the lab will be devoted to working on your lab assignment. Bring your text to every lab. Each assignment must be completed on line before you leave the lab.
gravity relief map of the Earth's oceans
Marine Life “Critter” Posters. In order to give you an opportunity to learn more about the life forms living in the ocean, part of your grade will consist of researching and summarizing in poster of an that lives in the ocean. You will summarize your findings in the form of a poster that you will present to the class during the final exam time. Your topic must be approved by me before you begin. A set of guidelines for researching and developing your poster are provided in Blackboard Late posters will not be accepted.
Big Al: COCC's oceanographic research vessel
Field Project. Oceanography is primarily a field science. Much of what we know about the oceans comes from direct sampling and monitoring of the oceans. Therefore, a significant part of your grade will involve having you work together in small groups to design and carry out an oceanographic field project. Your project will be developed in lab and followed up by a day-long data collecting field trip to one of our local “oceans”. This will be supplemented with open lab time to work on processing and interpreting your field data. You will then present your findings to the rest of the class in the form of a public poster session to be held during your final exam time. Guidelines for designing and conducting your field project and poster presentation as well as field report forms are include in Blackboard.
Grading. There are a total of 800 possible points for the course. Your grade will be based upon the scores you earn in the categories listed below. There will be four module exams during the term. The dates of these exams are listed on the Blackboard schedule The exams will consist of a combination of essay, multiple choice and matching and will cover material from both lecture and lab. Study guides are provided in Backboard to help you in preparing for exams. All exams are open book and closed mouth” You may use only your note and text to complete the exams. You cannot use another student to assist you, nor can you assist another student in completing their exam. I consider all of these to be cheating offenses and you will receive a score of “0” for the exam. In addition, you must take the exams on the designated date and time as listed on the accompanying schedule. If you miss an exam you will get a 0 for that test. In the event of an emergency, you should contact me ahead of time. In addition, if you have special testing requirements, see me prior to the exams. Final grades will be assigned as follows: A = 93-100%, A- = 90-92%, B+ = 87-89%, B = 83-86%, B- = 80-82%, C+ = 77-79%, C = 70-76%, D = 60-69%, F = less than 60%. Additional grading details can be found in Blackboard. You can check your grades on-line at any time by logging onto Blackboard.
How to Obtain Course
Materials. The text can be purchased from the
COCC Bookstore or on line from book sellers such as Amazon and Barnes and Noble.
I have structured this course so as to provide equal opportunities for all students to succeed. In addition, I try very hard to treat everyone fairly and to base grades upon on objective academic criteria. Moreover, I am very willing to help students that are having difficulty providing they show up for class regularly and come prepared and willing to try. In most cases the grade you earn will reflect your effort. If you are having difficulty or feel that you need additional help, please contact me in person, by phone or by e-mail. Results from hundreds of students indicate that most of you will do quite well; perhaps even better than you might have imagined. However, those who include dishonesty, chronic absenteeism or habitual excuses in their academic repertoire generally find college, and my courses in particular, difficult. Your education is an investment in your future. I encourage you to take it seriously. Welcome to the exciting world of salty water!
Sunset on the Caribbean island of Bonaire
