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Instructor Class Description

Time Schedule:

William Dean Hafner
BIS 386
Bothell Campus

Global Environmental Issues

Addresses the connections between local activities and the global environment; the scientific approach to these problems (both quantitatively and qualitatively); and policy implications.

Class description

This course deals with some of the major global environmental issues that stem from increasing human population and our demands on Earth’s natural resources. Throughout the course, students will learn how humans have altered the established equilibrium of the planet, and that these global changes begin at the local and individual level. Special focus will be given to how scientists have approached these issues and the role science plays in policy.

Student learning goals

General method of instruction

Instruction will focus on a mix of lectures, in class examples, and class discussion. There may be student presentations at the end of the quarter.

Recommended preparation

We will make extensive use of high school math so it is essential that students be proficient with these skills: percentages, graphing, scientific notation, logarithms and basic algebra.

Class assignments and grading

Lectures, problem sets, readings, library research, and papers. Exact percentage of each will vary.


The information above is intended to be helpful in choosing courses. Because the instructor may further develop his/her plans for this course, its characteristics are subject to change without notice. In most cases, the official course syllabus will be distributed on the first day of class.
Last Update by William Dean Hafner
Date: 01/24/2006