ESCI 1060 - Introduction to Oceanography

Credits: 3
Hours/Week: Lecture 3 Lab None
Course Description: This course presents the principles of historical, geological, biological, chemical, and physical oceanography. It explores contemporary problems related to marine pollution, resources, and Maritime Law for students wishing to become more aware of the growing importance of the sea in their lives.
MnTC Goals
3 Natural Science, 10 People/Environment

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Recommendation: None

Major Content

1. Basic Oceanographic Instruments and Techniques
2. Biological Oceanography
3. Chemical Oceanography
4. Geological Oceanography
5. History of Oceanography
6. Marine Pollution
7. Maritime Law
8. Origin of Earth and Ocean
9. Physical Oceanography
10. Resources of the Sea

1. describe the origins, formation, and history of the oceans on Earth.

2. describe the physical and geological features of the ocean floor.

3. describe the physical and chemical properties of ocean water.

4. identify modern marine equipment and technology.

5. assess the oceans as sources of mineral resources.

6. describe the biological biomes of the ocean regime.
Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC): Goals and Competencies
Competency Goals (MnTC Goals 1-6)
03. 01. Demonstrate understanding of scientific theories. 03. 02. Formulate and test hypotheses by performing laboratory, simulation, or field experiments in at least two of the natural science disciplines. One of these experimental components should develop, in greater depth, students’ laboratory experience in the collection of data, its statistical and graphical analysis, and an appreciation of its sources of error and uncertainty. 03. 04. Evaluate societal issues from a natural science perspective, ask questions about the evidence presented, and make informed judgments about science-related topics and policies.
Theme Goals (MnTC Goals 7-10)
10. 01. Explain the basic structure and function of various natural ecosystems and of human adaptive strategies within those systems. 10. 03. Describe the basic institutional arrangements (social, legal, political, economic, religious) that are evolving to deal with environmental and natural resource challenges. 10. 04. Evaluate critically environmental and natural resource issues in light of understandings about interrelationships, ecosystems, and institutions. 10. 05. Propose and assess alternative solutions to environmental problems.

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