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Economical and Sustainable Materials Courses Fall 2020

Science Technology and the Environment

STS 2454

110A NCB
MW
4:00 - 5:15 p.m.



Examines the nature and causes of global environmental challenges. Focuses on the role of science and technology in the causation of environmental problems and provision of solutions. Investigates uneven impacts among different groups and nations. Explores multicultural dimensions and ethical debates in the relationship between humanity and natural world. Considers visions of alternative futures.

Additional information

Instructor: Marcia Davitt 

Energy and Society                         

STS 3334

110B NCB
TR
9:30 - 10:45 a.m.




Examines the interconnections between energy use and social life. Considers the ways that modern social institutions, such as states, cities, and households are shaped by energy systems, particularly the pervasive use of fossil fuels. Explores the influence of energy extraction and commerce on economic development and global politics. Surveys major contemporary problems related to energy, including climate change and natural resource depletion. Develops an interdisciplinary framework, drawing insights from history, sociology, and economics, for evaluating policies to transition to a sustainable energy system.

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Instructor: Daniel Breslau

Collaborative Policy Making and Planning                  

SPIA 2554

220 NCB
MWF
9:05 - 9:55 a.m.





Introduction to multi-stakeholder collaboration and public participation in planning, policy-making and public administration. Tools and approaches for engagement and effective collaboration. Deliberative and participatory democracy, and transparency in society. Information sharing and access. Civil society, the media and citizens.

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Instructor: Todd Schenk 

Chemistry in Context                      

CHEM 1015  

281 Davidson
TR
11:00 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.






Survey of chemistry across areas of specialization for students enrolled in curricula other than science and engineering. History and fundamental concepts and theories of chemistry, including the consequences of changes in parameters on chemical systems. Impact of chemistry in the context of areas of public concern and policy, including best practices for sustainability, rational decision-making, ethical use of scientific information, product and process stewardship. Chemistry as a basis for decision-making in the context of individual values and beliefs, and the roles of values and beliefs in the progress of chemistry as a human endeavor. The foregoing to be based on the concepts of chemistry as follows: 1015: Periodicity and atomic structure; nuclear chemistry; chemical bonding and reactivity; organic chemistry, polymer chemistry, and medicinal chemistry. (3H,3C)

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Instructor: Jeannine Eddleton

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