PHSC 311 Oceanography

The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the study of the ocean. The course will reveal the complex inter-relatedness of the four main disciplines of oceanography. Particular attention will be paid to current issues and dilemmas facing the ocean and the associated impact for humankind. In the end, this course is designed to broaden the student’s understanding of the ocean.

Textbook readings and lecture presentations/notes

No details available.

Course Requirements Checklist

After reading the Course Syllabus and Student Expectations, the student will complete the related checklist found in the Course Overview.

Discussions (2)

Discussions are collaborative learning experiences. Therefore, the student is required to create a thread in response to the provided prompt for each discussion. Each thread must be at least 350 words and demonstrate course-related knowledge. In addition to the thread, the student is to reply to at least 1 other classmates’ threads. The reply must be at least 200 words and add substantially to the conversation. For each thread, the student will find 1-2 articles to discuss. The chosen articles must have been written within the last 5 years and cover a topic of research. All posts must adhere to current APA format. For the Discussion: Ocean Dilemmas, the student must also utilize at least 2 scholarly sources and provide a bibliography in current APA format. 

Homework Assignments (8)

After reading the assigned textbook chapter, the student will complete a short assignment to reinforce key components developed in the reading. The assignment will be composed of 15 matching, labeling, and sequencing questions.

Application Based Activities (4)

The student will complete 4 Application Based Activities through McGraw Hill Connect. Activities will be scenarios and real-world problems related to course content. The assignment is intended to deepen the student’s understanding of course content and allow the student to critically think about the material. 

Aquarium Visit Assignment

The student will select either 1) to visit an aquarium in-person and construct a 500-700-word summary of the visit or 2) to visit an aquarium virtually and compose a 6-8-page essay addressing life in the ocean, conservation, ethics of the aquarium, and stewardship. Current APA formatting should be followed for both options. The student is expected to accurately represent the site they chose using life and policies at the aquarium of choice. Each option must include a cover page and reference page. The student must include the required headings depending on the option they choose. The student must also include picture verification of their attendance for in-person visits. For option 1, the student must include at least 1 scholarly source in addition to the aquarium’s website or pamphlet. For option 2, the student must include at least 3 scholarly sources in addition to the aquarium’s website or pamphlet.

Quizzes (8)

The student will have 8 quizzes that cover the Learn material for the assigned module. Each quiz will be open-book/open-notes, allow for 1 attempt, and will have a 1-hour time limit. For 4 of the quizzes, the quizzes will contain 18 multiple-choice, true/false, and short essay questions. The remaining 4 quizzes will contain 25 multiple-choice and true/false questions. 

Quiz: Spiritual Assessments (2)

The student will have the opportunity to offer a self-assessment of his/her spiritual health twice during the course. The student can share personal concerns, prayer requests, and praises with the professor. The quiz will contain 3 short answer questions, allow for 1 attempt, and have no time limit.