Spring 2023 Class Schedule
View all course descriptions here.
| Course # | Course Title | Instructor | Day/Time | Lab |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 203 | Humans and the Environment | Beddows | TTh 2:00 PM - 3:20 PM | |
| 390-0-03 | Topics: R Data Science | Anderson | TBD | |
| 390-0-04 | Topics: Plant-Animal Interactions | Caradonna | TTh 12:30 PM - 1:50 PM | |
| 390-0-07 | Topics: Urban Ecology | Anderson | TBD | TBD |
2022-2023 Course Descriptions
203 – Humans and the Environment
Environmental science is the interdisciplinary study of how humans interact with the living and nonliving parts of their environment. In this course, we will examine current environmental challenges, such as the conservation of biodiversity, the sustainable production of energy, and the implications of human population growth. A case study approach will be used to emphasize the processes of scientific inquiry and discovery.
390-0-03 – Topics: R Data Science
As we are in the era of ‘big data’, the quantity and quality of data available for environmental, ecological and earth science research has exploded over the past few decades. The free and open-source R programming language has become a powerful tool in data analysis in scientific research. This course offers an introduction to the fundamentals of data science using the programming language, R. The course contents span from basic R programming skills to advanced skills including data management, visualization and analysis of spatial data such as weather and satellite imagery data. By conducting hands-on exercises and an extensive project, students will develop dynamic and reproducible outputs based on their own fields of interests. This course does not require prior coding experience.
390-0-04 – Topics: Plant-Animal Interactions
Plant-Animal Interactions: This course will explore the diversity of interactions between plants and animals, including antagonistic interactions (e.g., herbigory), mutualistic interactions (e.g., pollination, seed dispersal and ant-plant associations), and interactions involving multiple species and across trophic levels.
390-0-07 – Topics: Urban Ecology
Lecture: In this course, we will evaluate different aspects of the urban environment through the lens of a social-ecological system. Students will explore the principles of urbanization and examine how these changes influence hydrology, biogeochemistry, climate, and ecology. We will culminate with a unit on environmental justice and sustainability, discussing ways in which urban science helps solve the pressing challenges of today to improve life in the future. Lab: In this laboratory section, students will learn experimental design, field methods, and in urban ecology which they will use to conduct a research project in their community. Furthermore, students will participate in urban ecology field trips across Chicago that highlight themes of climate, hydrology, and environmental justice in local communities.