Global Climate Change: Causes, Connections & Cures. Cr. 2

Bart Bergquist
University of Northern Iowa

UI: 00L:210

ISU: Ia LL:510

UNI:  890:210

An examination of the underlying causes, both natural and human induced, of global climate changes. The course is intended for practicing teachers (grades 7-12) or those in relevant teacher preparation programs.  The course is best suited for teachers involved in classes that incorporate studies of environmental issues and change. Meets July 13- 24.

Coverage will demonstrate systemic integration and the web of interrelated links affecting the physical and living world, including human society.  A broad range of related topics from physical to biological will be examined to establish the significance of climate changes.  There are understandable cause and effect relationships underlying many of these changes.  Such understanding offers the possibility of intervention to reduce their negative consequences.  The class will incorporate lecture, discussion, multimedia, and student presentations. (Participants will develop and present a “solution to a problem” lesson/project designed appropriately for the grade level they teach).  We will also take advantage of the lab’s natural environment for some related field work, along with computer analysis.

Required text: The Weather Makers: How Man Is Changing the Climate and What It Means for Life on Earth by Tim Flannery.  Paperback ISBN:  0-8021-4292-3, ISBN-13:978-0-8021-4292-4, 384 pp, Feb. 2007. Current popular press articles (e.g. newspaper) will also be used to note timely issues.