Geography 401: Climatology
University of Idaho, Spring 2018
3 units
Lecture/Lab: T/Th 2:00-3:15 pm, Engineering-Physics 214 and online
Course Description: This course provides an in-depth view of the physical, chemical and biological basis for the Earth’s climate system with particular emphasis on the spatial and seasonal factors that define global climate. Geography 401 is divided into three overall pieces. First, we will uncover the physical basis of the global climate system and the primary processes that control climate at large geographic scales. Secondly, we will explore local-to-regional climates and their role in shaping landscape resources and climate impacts. Finally, we will examine time histories of climate variability and change through paleoclimatic datasets and climate modeling experiments.
Learning Outcomes: The primary goal of this course is for students to have a newfound appreciation for the complexity of the climate system. To reach the goal, students will understand:
Expectations: I expect you to have read each chapter and/or online materials in full prior to the beginning of each weeks classes. These are fairly short readings, but important for you to digest the lecture material . You will be quizzed on your ability to comprehend the material in the book and in class, so active participation and listening is required. I expect you to complete homework assignments on time and to feel free to ask me questions relating to any material we cover (and that we don't cover).
Prerequisites: Recommended preparation in GEOG 313 or 301, or graduate standing.
Recommended Text:
Statement on Students with Disabilities
Reasonable accommodations are available for students who have documented temporary or permanent disabilities. All accommodations must be approved through Disability Support Services located in the Idaho Commons Building, Room 306.Please meet with either Gloria or Angela at the beginning of each semester to set up accommodations for the semester so that you may notify your instructor(s) early in the semester regarding accommodation(s) needed for the course.
Office Hours: Friday 10:30-noon or by appointment
University of Idaho, Spring 2018
3 units
Lecture/Lab: T/Th 2:00-3:15 pm, Engineering-Physics 214 and online
Course Description: This course provides an in-depth view of the physical, chemical and biological basis for the Earth’s climate system with particular emphasis on the spatial and seasonal factors that define global climate. Geography 401 is divided into three overall pieces. First, we will uncover the physical basis of the global climate system and the primary processes that control climate at large geographic scales. Secondly, we will explore local-to-regional climates and their role in shaping landscape resources and climate impacts. Finally, we will examine time histories of climate variability and change through paleoclimatic datasets and climate modeling experiments.
Learning Outcomes: The primary goal of this course is for students to have a newfound appreciation for the complexity of the climate system. To reach the goal, students will understand:
- The integration of scientific disciplines in climate science.
- How to use qualitative and quantitative scientific analysis to understand complex problems of global climate.
- Processes that contribute spatial and temporal aspects of climate and climate variations.
Expectations: I expect you to have read each chapter and/or online materials in full prior to the beginning of each weeks classes. These are fairly short readings, but important for you to digest the lecture material . You will be quizzed on your ability to comprehend the material in the book and in class, so active participation and listening is required. I expect you to complete homework assignments on time and to feel free to ask me questions relating to any material we cover (and that we don't cover).
Prerequisites: Recommended preparation in GEOG 313 or 301, or graduate standing.
Recommended Text:
- Essentials of the Earth's Climate System, Barry and Hall-McKim , ©2014 ISBN: 978-1107620490 (recommended), from $22 and up
Statement on Students with Disabilities
Reasonable accommodations are available for students who have documented temporary or permanent disabilities. All accommodations must be approved through Disability Support Services located in the Idaho Commons Building, Room 306.Please meet with either Gloria or Angela at the beginning of each semester to set up accommodations for the semester so that you may notify your instructor(s) early in the semester regarding accommodation(s) needed for the course.
Office Hours: Friday 10:30-noon or by appointment