What is this
course about?
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Evaluation of student performance in this class will be based on several different indicators. There will be three in-class exams, two during regular class periods and one during the final exam period. These will include a mix of multiple-choice, short-answer and possibly some short essay questions. The final will be non-cumulative. Each exam will count for 20% of your course grade, for a total of 60%. The exams are intended primarily to test your mastery of the material covered in the assigned readings and lectures. The remainder of your grade, amounting to 40%, will be based on other aspects of your performance: completion of assignments, regular attendance and class participation, the quality of thought and evidence of care and attention to detail that goes into your written and posted assignments and your oral presentations. Nobody will be penalized for lack of prior experience in making oral presentations, and one of our goals for the semester is for everyone to gain this experience as a way of building confidence in making public presentations in an informal atmosphere. However I will track evidence of the amount of thought and preparation that goes into your work. This evidence includes active participation in posting comments and exchanging ideas with other students through the class discussion board (I will show you in class how this works) and through group activities in class; as well as the depth and sophistication of your written work. Grammar and spelling as well as clarity of expression will be noted in evaluating any of the final products turned in on paper or in digital form. Good writing is essential, regardless of the medium. Above all I want you to feel that you are engaged in a set of activities that broadens your awareness and your understanding of the complex interactions driving earth systems and environmental conditions. The truest measure of success in this course will be your final assessment of what you have gained from the experience. I invite you to consult with me at any time if you have questions or concerns about the course or about your individual performance, and I am also available if you want to talk about future prospects with regard to course selection, academic major or minor, internships, career opportunities, etc. |