EAPS 32700 Climate, Science and Society
Asynchronous Online Course | CRN: 25603 | 3 credit hours
Course homepage: https://purdue.brightspace.com/d2l/home/336134
Instructor:
Jennifer Nelson, [email protected], please allow 24 hours for response
Online Office Hours:
Fridays 10am – 11am (https://purdue-edu.zoom.us/my/nelso498)
or by appointment with 24 hours advance notice
Course Description
This course will examine the broad problems of climate change by examining the relationship between science,
politics, and society by using climate change as a lens through which to examine larger issues. Students will be
encouraged to identify similar themes in their own experiences as emerging scientists, engineers, and global
leaders. Adequate preparation to write essays and perform basic arithmetic calculations needed. Prior knowledge
of climate change science is not necessary.
Course Goals
The primary goal of this course is to teach Climate Science Literacy. Climate
change is one of the most complex societal problems of the day, spanning
disciplines as far ranging as atmospheric chemistry, biogeochemistry, ecology,
economics, ethics, and policy. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of
Earth’s climate system; how it works and how humans are changing it. This
course will provide knowledge and skills necessary for informed citizenship by
encouraging students to apply scientific information to evaluate public
discussions and policy decisions related to climate change.
Course Overview
In this course we will review the past, present, and future of climate change,
and the relationship between climate and society. Our learning will be guided
by the principles of Climate Literacy, and we will utilize two textbooks, online
readings, and videos to explore and learn. You will apply what you learn in
course discussions, homework, quizzes, and a term project. This course will be
delivered through modules offered sequentially and building upon past knowledge as the class session progresses.
My Expectations of You
This is a 300-level course that fulfills the College of Science Great Issues in Science requirement, and the course
expectations align with that. As a Junior or Senior at Purdue, I expect you can read carefully and critically; write
clearly, well, and often; converse coherently and collegially; perform math at the college level; use and articulate
logic; turn assignments in on time; communicate with your instructor; behave honestly and ethically; and be
respectful of others.
This resource has excellent information
on Climate Literacy: Climate Literacy:
the Essential Principles of Climate
Science (we will read this as part of our
course readings)
Page 2 of 7
Learning Objectives
Through our work in this course, we will address several fundamental questions about climate change to address
the following learning objectives:
• Understand the basic principles of Earth’s climate system to explain the physical nature of global climate
change. (or, What is climate change?)
