NSCI 150 Nature (5 credits)
Distribution Area Fulfilled Natural Sciences with Lab; General Transfer Elective
Course Description
The emphasis of the course is to identify the major life forms found in a specific area or region including native and introduced species, and their adaptations to the environment. The course focuses on the observation of nature for both scientific and recreational purposes. Includes lab and field studies.
Course Content
A. Biotic and abiotic factors
B. Taxonomy
C. Ecology
D. Evolution
E. Identification of organisms from the designated area or region
F. Natural history of life on the Earth
G. Scientific method
H. Native (endemic) versus introduced species
Student Outcomes
1. Identify and contrast the properties of life vs. non-life.
2. Identify the means to determine the differences between the three domains and various kingdoms of life.
3. Define and identify the terms ecosystem, biome, niche, habitat, trophic pyramid, food web, succession, evolution, natural selection, and other terms / words specific to the instructor’s course design emphasizing ecological awareness.
4. Define the fundamental characteristics of trophic levels, food pyramids, and food webs.
5. Identify common species of organisms via physical and written identification means.
6. Demonstrate an increased awareness of environmental interactions and specific life forms.
7. Define and identify the scientific method, emphasizing the difference between objective and subjective study and test-based understanding.
8. Recognize and evaluate the impact of exotic or introduced species upon endemic species.
9. Apply a basic understanding of genetics to environmental issues as genetically modified and recombined life forms.
10. Determine the taxonomic categories of life forms.
11. List and categorize the characteristics of the various ecosystems which make up a biome in order to identify the ecosystems and biomes of the studied area or region.
Degree Outcomes
Critical, Creative, and Reflective Thinking: Graduates will evaluate, analyze, synthesize, and generate ideas; construct informed, meaningful, and justifiable conclusions; and process feelings, beliefs, biases, strengths, and weaknesses as they relate to their thinking, decisions, and creations.
Natural Sciences: Graduates use the scientific method to analyze natural phenomena and acquire skills to evaluate authenticity of data/information relative to the natural world.
Lecture Contact Hours 40
Lab Contact Hours 20
Clinical Contact Hours 0
Total Contact Hours 60
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