SCI 107 Explorations on the Delaware Bay

The course provides students with the opportunity to conduct multi-disciplinary, collaborative, hands-on research of environmental issues facing the Delaware Bay. Students will be introduced to themes and skills that will be expanded upon in their program science courses. This is the first of a two-semester sequence.

Credits

3

Prerequisite

Prerequisite: Instructor signature required.

See Course Syllabus

Course Number and Title:

SCI 107 Explorations on the Delaware Bay

Campus Location

  • Stanton

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: Instructor signature required.

Course Credits and Hours

3 credit(s)

2 lecture hours/week

3 lab hours/week

Course Description

The course provides students with the opportunity to conduct multi-disciplinary, collaborative, hands-on research of environmental issues facing the Delaware Bay. Students will be introduced to themes and skills that will be expanded upon in their program science courses. This is the first of a two-semester sequence.

Additional Materials

None

Required Text(s)

Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore - https://www.dtcc.edu/bookstores online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.

Disclaimer

None

Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)

  1. Apply the scientific method to investigate an environmental topic. (CCC 1, 2, 6)
  2. Use information literacy skills to access, locate, evaluate, and use information sources. (CCC 4, 5, 6)
  3. Apply explicit reading strategies to improve fluency and comprehension, and apply explicit writing strategies for discipline-specific assignments. (CCC 1)
  4. Use mathematical principles to analyze discipline-specific data. (CCC 2, 6)
  5. Perform and analyze laboratory activities related to environmental studies. (CCC 2, 3, 6)

See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.

Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)

Upon completion of this course, the student will:

  1. Apply the scientific method to investigate an environmental topic.
    1.  Outline the steps used in research.
    2.  Define discipline-specific research questions.
    3.  Discuss elements of experimental design.
    4.  Describe data collection strategies.
    5.  Construct a scientific argument.
    6.  Communicate scientific findings in a variety of formats.
  2. Use information literacy skills to access, locate, evaluate, and use information sources.
    1.  Identify characteristics and appropriate uses of various types of information resources.
    2.  Identify keywords to formulate a search strategy to find information.
    3.  Apply an effective search strategy to find information.
    4.  Evaluate the authority, accuracy, and objectivity of a source.
    5.  Apply strategies to avoid plagiarism.
  3. Apply explicit reading strategies to improve fluency and comprehension, and apply explicit writing strategies for discipline-specific assignments
    1.  Employ appropriate active reading strategies before, during, and after reading.
    2.  Use planning, drafting, and revising strategies.
    3.  Respond to readings through oral and written response.
    4.  Use discipline-specific terminology in discussions and written responses.
  4. Use mathematical principles to analyze discipline-specific data.
    1.  Interpret circle, line, and bar graphs.
    2.  Represent and analyze data graphically.
    3.  Calculate the mean, median, mode, and standard deviation for a set of data.
    4.  Use appropriate United States standard and metric units.
    5.  Analyze data using scientific calculators and Excel.
  5. Perform and analyze laboratory activities related to environmental studies. 
    1.  Compare methods used in environmental disciplines.
    2.  Conduct discipline-specific experiments.
    3.  Use data collection methods appropriate to the discipline.
    4.  Analyze results from laboratory activities.

Evaluation Criteria/Policies

The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:

90-100 = A
80-89 = B
70-79 = C
0-69 = F
Students should refer to the Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.

Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)

  1. Apply clear and effective communication skills.
  2. Use critical thinking to solve problems.
  3. Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
  4. Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
  5. Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
  6. Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.

Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability

We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.

Minimum Technology Requirements

Minimum technology requirements for online, hybrid, video conferencing and web conferencing courses.