TEACHING

Historical Geology (GEOL 1004)

Teaching format: In-person & Online (asynchronous)

An introductory historical geology course designed to provide the student with the necessary tools to interpret and understand the processes leading to the complex history of the Earth and its contained biota. An additional goal is to provide an overview of the major events in Earth's history that have had a profound effect on Earth's physical, chemical, and biologic environment. The course encompasses the causes and effects of mass extinction on the history of life, and the role of plate tectonics on the geologic and biologic evolution of the Earth.

Tropical Islands: Endangered Paradises (GEOL 1019)

Teaching format: In-person & Online (asynchronous)

Because of their relative isolation from one another and from large continental regions, islands can be viewed as “worlds unto themselves”, offering opportunities to explore ecological models and theories in simplified contexts. Island biotas are susceptible to human impact and global change because they occupy limited environments and areas with finite resources, and tropical islands are especially vulnerable because they often harbor large numbers of unique species. This course introduces basic concepts about island geology, biology, paleontology and archeology, with a particular emphasis on tropical islands. Topics include a broad overview of geological processes, biodiversity, extinction and evolutionary processes, fossil records, prehistoric and historic human impacts, climate change, and conservation and sustainability. No previous courses or experience are required. This course is designed to expose students to various disciplines in the sciences that will help them to identify and pursue a more specific scientific field in the future. Overall, students will learn foundational concepts and processes related to the natural and earth sciences.

Holocene Environmental and Cultural History (GEOL/EVST 4036-6036)

Teaching format: In-person

The Holocene epoch (spanning the last 11,700 years) has been a critical environmental and cultural period in Earth’s history. Civilization and life as we know it came to be during the Holocene. Landscapes have fluctuated significantly through the Holocene because of natural climate change and human activities. Extensive scientific research is elucidating how natural and anthropogenic factors have combined to shape Holocene ecosystems and organisms. We will critically evaluate the interplay between paleoenvironmental transitions and major cultural events throughout the Holocene by discussing a selection of relevant book chapters, and seminal and recent scientific papers. This course is designed for graduate and advanced undergraduate students.

Foundations of the Geosciences (GEOL 1099c)

Teaching format: In-person

This course lays the foundation of knowledge and skills for students pursuing a major in Geology. Through lectures, field trips, and an integrated weekly laboratory session, students will be introduced to the scientific methods and techniques used by modern geoscientists to study earth's systems. Students will be exposed to the diverse and interdisciplinary nature of Geology, including physical geology, paleobiology, geochemistry, and environmental sciences, and will learn how they may draw on these different fields to understand their ever-changing planet. The depth and breadth of geological exposure will provide students the opportunity to make informed decisions about the future focus of their geology coursework and/or research.

Study-abroad course: Ecology and Paleoecology of the Canary Islands (GEOL/EVST4056c)

Teaching format: In-person

This course trains advanced undergraduate science majors on all aspects of the scientific method. Students investigate ecology and paleoecology of the Canary Islands along environmental gradients and through geologic time. The course includes literature review on the Geology, Biology and Environments of the Canary Islands, biotic/abiotic factors impacting organisms’ communities, field sampling strategies, species identification, basic statistical treatments and data interpretation, and scientific writing and oral presentations. The course includes an international field trip to the Canary Islands during Spring Break to complete the field component of the research project and learn about Canary Islands culture and nature.