Overview
This course is devoted to the study of the interactions between human society and the rest of the ecological world. The course introduces the methodology needed for that study and examines topics such as atmospheric change, biodiversity loss, resource use, and agriculture. The course also explores how societies can move toward sustainable development and moderate their effects on the biosphere.
Evaluation
To receive credit for this course, students must complete four assignments and write the final closed book examination. They must receive 50% on the final exam and achieve a course composite grade of at least a D (50%). The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:
| Activity | Weight |
| Assignment 1 | 15% |
| Assignment 2 | 15% |
| Assignment 3 | 20% |
| Assignment 4a Proposal | 5% |
| Assignment 4b Essay | 25% |
| Final Exam | 20% |
| Total | 100% |
The final examination for this course must be requested in advance and written under the supervision of an AU-approved exam invigilator. Invigilators include either ProctorU or an approved in-person invigilation centre that can accommodate online exams. Students are responsible for payment of any invigilation fees. Information on exam request deadlines, invigilators, and other exam-related questions, can be found at the Exams and grades section of the Calendar.
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University’s online Calendar.
Materials
This course either does not have a course package or the textbooks are open-source material and available to students at no cost. This course has a Course Administration and Technology Fee, but students are not charged the Course Materials Fee.
Digital course materials
Links to the following course materials will be made available in the course:
Suzuki, David, & Dressel, Holly. (2010). More good news: Real solutions to the global eco-crisis. Vancouver: David Suzuki Foundation/Greystone Books.
Other Materials
All other course materials are available online.
Challenge for credit
Overview
The challenge for credit process allows you to demonstrate that you have acquired a command of the general subject matter, knowledge, intellectual and/or other skills that would normally be found in a university-level course.
Full information about challenge for credit can be found in the Undergraduate Calendar.
Evaluation
To receive credit for the ENVS 243 challenge registration, you must achieve a grade of at least D (50 percent) on the exam, and an overall grade of at least D (50 percent).
| Activity | Weight |
| Assignment | 35% |
| Exam | 65% |
| Total | 100% |
Challenge for credit course registration form