EARTH SYSTEM SCIENCE: AN INQUIRY-BASED, INTEGRATED APPROACH TO INSTRUCTION

Humankind shares a unique, direct relationship with our planet Earth. Earth System Science (ESS) teaches students the interactive relationships of physical and biotic entities of the Earth. Several years ago, the University of Idaho was awarded a FIPSE grant to examine and revise the undergraduate curriculum. In response, faculty in the Department of Education and Department of Geology at the University of Idaho collaborated to develop and implement a new core course that would focus on both earth science and related societal issues--from an 'integrated' standpoint. This ESS course, titled "Earth, System, Society" presents the Earth system as a whole, comprised of intertwined “spheres”. The components, resources, and internal processes of the five major spheres: lithosphere, hydrosphere, atmosphere, biosphere, and anthrosphere (sphere of human influence) are examined individually. The interaction of each sphere with the remaining four spheres is presented using inquiry-based methods that foster logical thinking, scientific, and social decision-making. Students enrolled in this course conduct their own scientific studies with “hands-on” activities and projects. Supplemental writing and quantitative reasoning assignments using collection and analysis of field data encourage problem-based learning and develop inductive and deductive reasoning. Emphasis upon the interaction of science, technology, and society provides a foundation for complex, scientifically literate and ethical reasoning. Students engage in current scientific-societal issues such as global warming, deforestation, and mineral/petroleum resource management to promote interest in contributing to society. Upon course completion, the students have a strong understanding of the scientific process and develop appreciation and comprehension of the Earth System, including policies, practices, and related issues. The purpose of this presentation is to describe the course: in-depth rationale, overall development and implementation, rationale, and societal & educational impact.