Previous Scientific Connections
The following Scientific Connections courses will be offered in Spring 2015.
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.
Environmental Science. The goal of this eight-week, online 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.
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, 2015 ) to the State of Alaska is a required component of this course; this trip will incur
an additional cost (estimated $3000). Contact Dr Kelly for more information.
What’s that Stuff. Have you ever asked yourself any of the following questions? Why doesn’t a glass
of water or CokeTM relieve the burning sensation of chili peppers in spicy food? Why do old oil paintings
discolor? Where did the phrase “to be in the limelight” originate? What puts the
“blue” in blue jeans? Why do light sticks glow? How do time-released medicines work?
"What’s that Stuff” is a course designed to explore landmark chemical technologies
through the history of chemistry on the road to modern civilization. Contact Dr Bradshaw for more information.
