Scientific Connections
The following Scientific Connections courses will be offered in Spring 2018.
Superheroes, Science and Society. Superheroes have played an important part in American culture since the 1930’s. From
secret identities to superhuman abilities or technological gadgets, characters such
as Superman and Batman have dealt with a variety of social issues as well as provided
inspiration for the development of many of the modern devices we use today. In this
course, students will investigate the some of the science behind several of the most
common superheroes as well as some of the ethical implications of being a superhero.
Students will also be asked to think critically about the possible impact a real life
superhero would have on society, from a moral, judicial and financial view point.
At semester’s end, students will present a paper, comic or video in which they star
as the superhero. Contact Dr. Cornelius for more information about this course.
Chemistry of Art. Chemistry is everywhere, including in art! In this course, we will gain a better
understanding of why artists’ materials behave the way they do, studying a variety
of materials such as photography, glass, metals, paper, dyes, and pigments. We will
utilize case studies, class discussions, and hands-on activities to aid us as we develop
these concepts. Over the course of the semester, we will use chemistry to produce
several pieces of art, culminating in a scientific art show. Contact Dr. Hubbard for more information about this course.
Native Alaska: Culture and Ecology. The primary goal of this course is to introduce students to Alaskan native culture,
the Alaskan Native Claims Settlement Act (ANCSA), Alaskan geology and its ecology,
and to evaluate how they intertwine in an indivisible manner. Students will develop
a strong appreciation for the uniqueness of Alaska. Alaska’s rich native culture and
geology have a profound effect on the regions ecology. Students will immerse themselves
in the ecological wonders that Alaska affords such as glaciers, tundra, oceans, forests
and more, culminating in a life-changing visit to Alaska, the world’s final frontier.
A 7-day, post-semester trip ( May 28-June 4, 2018 ) to the State of Alaska is an optional component of this course; this trip will incur
an additional cost (estimated $3000). Contact Dr. Knight for more information about this course.
Environmental Science. The goal of this course is to provide students an interdisciplinary approach to the
scientific principles, ideas, and concepts required to better understand our world.
The course will cover a variety of environmental issues and controversies to help
students understand the relationship between humans and the environment. The scientific
method will be utilized to help students identify and analyze environmental problems,
primarily focusing on those that are man-made. The course will incorporate concepts
from the traditional sciences, primarily ecology, as well as the disciplines of economics,
history, sociology, and political science. Upon completing the course, students should
be able to explain human interaction with the environment. This course may be taken
for CORE Scientific Connections credit or for BIOL Environmental Science credit; students
taking the course for BIOL credit will complete an additional research project. Contact Dr. Knight for more information.