2-13: Earth System Science
Importance of this Unit to the Course
In previous units we have looked at components
of the earth system but this unit brings these components together as an integrated system.
Objectives
- To understand the concept of a systems approach to global change problems
and how this differs from a reductionist approach
- To acquire a "big picture" of the interconnectedness of the physical,
chemical, biological, and human components of the global change
Preparation for Discussion
(You must complete this section before class.)
- Read the
summary information.
(Images)
- Take the
Quiz
- Review additional reading material (this material is not covered in the
quiz, but offers more ideas for online discussion)
Discussion (online / face-to-face)
(See your portfolio for due dates and times)
A major component of the course is participation in the online dialog.
The following types of comments are required:
- Social Comments
- Knowledge-building Comments
- Ethical Comments
The following may be used as discussion starters for the online dialog:
- Unit Problem to Ponder:
Why can it be argued that social choices by humans must be included
in earth system science? Where does the study of such choices emerge
in the Bretherton
diagram?
- Unit exam questions
from previous years
- Unit discussions from previous years, available from
the current online
discussion
Additional Reading
