What is this course about?

This course aims to help you build crucial skills related to thinking about science in general and Earth and planetary science in particular. You will be exposed to exciting and usually unresolved cutting edge problems in Earth and Planetary Science—the kinds of problems that inspire us as professional scientists to question and to wonder. In this context you will explore the process of how scientists construct knowledge and build understanding and how scientists often must deconstruct their own conditioning so that they can learn (see “Course Learning Goals”).

We run this course somewhat like a graduate seminar. You will be reading articles from primary and secondary sources. Class time will involve discussion, debate and team work so coming prepared is a necessity. In addition, two group projects will be completed, giving you opportunities to explore in greater detail topics of your choice. More on all of this later…

What is this course not about?

Regurgitating… Getting “the right” answer…