Time Schedule:
David L. Stokes
BIS 391
Bothell Campus
Examines the history of the relationships between humans and their environments in the Pacific Northwest, from the time of earliest human inhabitants to the present, with particular reference to current environmental and resource issues.
Class description
In this class we examine the history of the complex relationships between humans and the environment in the Pacific Northwest from the time of the earliest human inhabitants to the present day. How have humans and their activities in the region been influenced by the natural environment, and how have humans affected the region’s environment? We will approach these questions at both bioregional and local scales, focusing on issues of particular concern today, including the interactions of humans with non-human species such as salmon, forest and timber use, and landscape change, among others. In addition to learning about these relationships, we will attempt to go beyond description and analysis, to make useful contributions to public understanding of the environmental history behind current environmental issues in the bioregion.
Student learning goals
Interdisciplinary understanding of the history of humans’ relationship with the natural environment in the Pacific Northwest.
Appreciation of the relevance of environmental history to the present day and an understanding of how the history of human interaction with natural systems in the Pacific Northwest has contributed to environmental conditions and problems of today.
Greater knowledge of the scope and nature of environmental change over the time in which humans have inhabited the Pacific Northwest.
Understanding of different views regarding our region’s environmental history and the ability to critically evaluate these different perspectives.
In-depth knowledge and understanding of the environmental history of a particular location in the bioregion, and the relevance of that history to the present and future of that location.
Improved ability to communicate knowledge of the region’s environmental history to others.
General method of instruction
Most classes will be a mix of lecture and discussion. We will take one Saturday field trip (required) in the second half of the quarter.
Recommended preparation
Class assignments and grading
Grades will be based on a combination of tests, participation in class discussion, research paper, and in-class presentations.
