Survey of Oceanography
OCE 100, Science and Math Division
Credits: 5 (non-lab science)
Offerings 2008-09: fall, winter, spring
Text: Essentials of Oceanography, Trujillo & Thurman, 9th Edition, 2008 (ISBN: 0132401223)

Over one quarter we will focus on four ocean related issues:

1. The Puget Sound Ecosystem
2. Earthquakes, tsunamis and volcanoes in the Pacific Northwest
3. Climate change and the ocean
4. Tribal whaling

Through these issues we will survey the earth beneath the oceans where dynamic tectonic plates create volcanoes, tsunamis and earthquakes in the Pacific Northwest. We'll investigate the atmosphere above the oceans where a constant exchange of chemicals regulates our atmosphere. We'll investigate the physics of ocean currents, tides and waves and discover how this substance enables life on earth. Finally, we'll survey ocean life, from microscopic algae to the largest animals that have ever lived on the planet.

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Use plate tectonics theory to explain natural disaster potential
• Explain the relationship between the ocean and climate change
• Justify solutions and debate tradeoffs regarding the collapse of world fisheries
• Use scientific methods and proceedings to base arguments on social issues

Last updated: April 3, 2009 11:26 AM