ESCI 109 - Hot Topics in Earth Science and the Media

Semester Offered: Fall
1 unit(s)

From fracking to mountaintop removal, BP’s Gulf of Mexico oil spill, invasive species and their impacts on native ecology, and global warming, geology and related ecologic processes have been major topics in the news lately.

Topic for 2023/24a: Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, storms, floods, and fires are all displays of the awesome forces that shape our planet. Public awareness and the associated costs of these events has increased in recent years. Is this a reflection of a change in the frequency of geohazards or are there other factors at play? This course investigates the science behind these natural processes and phenomena and examines the media portrayals of these hot-topic issues. Students gain a deeper understanding of the scientific community’s knowledge and will develop the ability to assess whether media coverage is fair and accurate. We also discuss how science itself is portrayed in the media and the importance of accurate and accessible scientific communication. John Zayac.

Open only to first-year students; satisfies the college requirement for a First-Year Writing Seminar.

Two 75-minute periods.

Course Format: CLS