WCore Physical and Natural World Courses
ART-207: The Art & Science of Creativit
Creativity is significant in the design of both artistic creations and scientific experiments. Both science and the arts are process-driven and employ problem-solving techniques. Both have a history of work in the field, from collecting specimens to plein air painting. Both have a history of work indoors, from labs to studios. Whether one's lens is that of a camera or a microscope, observation is the same process. The course takes an interdisciplinary look at the creative process, turning parallels into intersections. We will focus on current research in creativity and, through experiential discovery, tap our own ability to design and experiment. (WCore: WCSAM, WCPNW)
BIOL-201: Geobiology of the Universe
This course explores the interdisciplinary methods of space exploration and the extraordinary data that we accrue through Earth analogs, remote sensing, crewed missions, and uncrewed probes into our solar system and beyond. Using primary data from past studies and current missions, we will develop models and design experiments to ask larger questions about the Universe. Is there life beyond Earth? How does geology of a space body inform the potential for life? (WCore: WCSAM, RE, WCPNW)
CHEM-114: Science of Food and Drink
Food and drink are central to living and this culinary course takes a chemistry approach to the study of how different foods and drinks are created. During this highly interactive course, students will learn fundamental principles in chemistry and then use them to create various foods and drink. Topics such as chemical composition, chemical bonding, chemical interactions, chemical properties and chemical reactivity will be explored using chemicals and biological organisms common in a kitchen. Concepts will be studied through experimentation using the kitchen as the laboratory environment. During the course, other important and sometime controversial food science topics will be discussed. Additionally, examples and illustrations pulled from recent events will be given to heighten the general awareness of other chemicals present in society and the benefits and risks associated with their use. (WCore: WCSAM, WCPNW)
ENVI-102: Ecology of Food Systems
We eat many times a day, but very few of us think about our meals as part of a complex system of interactions between plants, animals, people, machines, and institutions. In this course we will explore the current state of the US food system, from production to consumption as well as issues such as food waste and food insecurity. Through hands-on experiments, guest experts and field visits, we'll also learn about the many ways that folks are working to create new food systems that are more just, fair and ecological. This course will also introduce students to the hands-on skills essential for sustainable agriculture on a variety of scales. On some days, participants should come to class dressed to do garden work and expect to get their hands dirty, as well as spend time visiting several area farms and gardens. Students will have the opportunity to implement what they learn while working in Westminster's campus garden and in cooperation with community partners. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW)
ENVI-104: Explorations in Oceanography
This course will take an interdisciplinary approach to exploring oceanography, marine ecology, and how anthropogenic activities influence the ocean. We will study key aspects of physical, biological, and chemical oceanography in order to gain an integrated and comprehensive understanding of the oceans. This course will include multiday experiments and labs in which students will explore concepts such as what physical factors control ocean circulation, what influences biological primary production, the chemistry behind ocean acidification, and how ocean acidification impacts different classes of phytoplankton. Group activities will often utilize real oceanographic, remote sensing, and time series data to explore relationships, long term trends, and periodic events, such as El Nino. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW)
ENVI-115: Science of the Environment
In this course, you will get hands-on opportunities to learn about many critical aspects of our environment the soil that produces the food we eat, the air we breathe and the water we drink, as well as the climate of the planet we call home. You will have the opportunity to learn how these important environmental systems work, as well several techniques and tools to collect, analyze, and interpret environmental data. A major goal of the course is to help you understand the science behind many environmental issues so that you can make informed decisions about important environmental and global challenges. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW)
GEOL-107: Geology of the American West
This class uses case studies in Western North America to introduce students to the field of geology. Through investigations of the Pacific Northwest, the Colorado Plateau, the Wyoming Craton, and the Wasatch Mountains, students will learn the theories and concepts that geologists use to understand our entire planet. Be warned: this class will change the way you see the world. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW) Note: Students may get credit for GEOL 107 or GEOL 111, but not both.
GEOL-111: National Parks Geology
Many of America's National Parks were designated because of their geologic beauty and history. This course will examine geologic principles and concepts through the lens of National Park Service units, as they often represent the most exquisite examples of geologic phenomena. Geology within national parks tells a story of the evolution of North America, from mountain building, to volcanism, to historic inland seas and giant beasts of an earlier geologic age. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW) Note: Students may get credit for GEOL 107 or GEOL 111, but not both.
GEOL-230: Dinosaur Paleobiology
They say you can't get blood from a stone, but paleontologists often try to do exactly that. With nothing but a few fossilized fragments, paleontologists reconstruct not just the anatomy of extinct creatures, but also their physiology, behavior, ecology, and life histories. This class will use dinosaurs as an extended case study to explore how paleontologists make claims about the lives of long dead creatures, and about how understanding those creatures' lives can lead to additional insights about the history of the earth and the dynamics of evolution. (WCore: WCSAM, WCPNW)
NEURO-117: Yep, Brains Are Cool!
In this course we will explore a variety of topics important to anyone who owns and uses a brain. In particular, we will focus on brain development in late adolescence and emerging adulthood, and will use our brains to understand how we research brains. The course will be framed around a central question - "How do we know that?" We will look at current research on brain development during the transition to young adulthood, examine strengths and weaknesses of methods used to conduct that research, and discuss the practical application of such knowledge to the students' own lives. In addition, we will discuss the ways in which said research has been used to shape parenting and educational practices as well as public policy over the past decade. (WCore: WCSAM, RE, WCPNW)
NEURO-120: Genetics of Human Behavior
Have you ever wondered how much your genes affect who you are? This course is an exploration of the role of genetic inheritance on human behavior. We will focus on modern genetic analysis and the molecular techniques used to study both complex normal human behaviors and diseases. Lab exercises, data analysis, and case studies will be integrated throughout to familiarize students with the process and methods of science. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW)
NURS-108: Healthy, Sustainable Nutrition
The course includes the foundations of human dietary requirements, the basics of macronutrients and micronutrients, and nutritional needs across the lifespan needed for a pre-health occupation prerequisite. The primary prevention of the chronic diseases of first world populations, versus the needs of those of the third world will be compared and contrasted for the purpose of exploring complex issues of nutrition, food, health and environmental sustainability. Grounded in concepts of nutrition science and human ecology, the course will explore the impact of food production and consumption on human health and the environment. Deep learning is achieved through involvement in hands-on activities and assignments. Prerequisites: none. (WCore: WCSAM)
PHYS-109: Introduction to Circuits and Electronics
This is a hands -on course where students build practical electronic devices and learn basic electronics and electric circuits. (WCore: WCSAM, QE, WCPNW)
PHYS-116: Introduction to the Universe
This course will introduce students to the field of astronomy, starting with students reproducing the ancient insights into the motions of the sun, moon, planets, and stars, and continuing through new modern discoveries such as dark matter and extrasolar planets. Emphasis is placed on the physical properties of light and how it is used to observe the universe beyond our physical reach. Throughout the course, we will discuss the interaction of astronomy and culture, and what makes science different from other ways of knowing. (WCore: WCPNW, WCSAM, QE)
PHYS-208: Citizen Science Astronomy Research
In this course, students will use robotic telescopes to take astronomical images, analyze the data in these images, and contribute their findings to an ongoing collaborative citizen science research project. Possible objects of study will vary depending on timing, but may include variable stars, eclipsing binaries, exoplanet transits, or asteroids. Students will also choose their own citizen science project in which to participate and share their project with others. Throughout the course, we will focus on the critical thinking skills and processes in scientific research, how the modern scientific enterprise operates, and how science is communicated to the public. (WCore: WCSAM, WCPNW)
PSYC-105: Bust That Psych Myth
This course provides an introduction to the scientific study of human cognition, emotion and behavior with an emphasis on debunking popular myths and misconceptions about human behavior. Students will gain a broad understanding of the diverse research areas and specializations in the field of psychological science, the context of the field among other sciences, applications of research to address societal issues and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience conducting research to develop scientific literacy skills for understanding psychological phenomena and behavior. Topics include psychological and behavioral research methods, biological and socio-cultural foundations of behavior, sensation and perception, learning, memory, development, emotion, stress and health, social interactions and behavior, personality and psychological disorders. This course is not intended for students who have already completed an introductory psychology course. (WCore: WCSAM, RE, WCPNW)