HYBRID* PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY
(*some class meetings required)
PRELIMINARY COURSE INFORMATION
Spring 2007
Instructor: Lynn E. Newman
Office: 05-137 Phone: 623.845.3877
Email for questions before course starts: lynn.newman@gcmail.maricopa.edu
Introduction
Physical geography is a field that examines the processes, forms, and spatial components of systems that operate at and near the earth's surface, including the atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere and biosphere. The objectives of GPH 111 are (1) to introduce the major environmental systems at and near the earth’s surface and to explore their processes and forms, (2) to define the relationship between these natural systems and human society that deals with them as resources and hazards, and (3) through laboratory exercises, generally completed in the classroom in a hybrid course, introduce the student to geographic techniques and scientific methods. This online-hybrid class covers the same material discussed in a traditional lecture class, but requires much more effort and discipline on your part. You must be comfortable using a computer and the Internet. Primary communication is by email and within online discussion areas. You will learn course material from your textbook, the study guide, practice quizzes, assignments, online discussions, in-class lab exercises and Internet resources.
It is hoped that this course will provide the student with information to form wise decisions for managing the environment, as well as a heightened awareness of the beauty and function of natural systems. GPH 111 is a general survey course and assumes no previous background. It is a four credit laboratory science class which is transferable to the state university system. A single grade for lecture and lab will be awarded.
Required On-Campus Meetings
There is one required in-class period per week. At these meetings, you will be doing any one of the following: lab exercises, lab quizzes or taking regular lecture exams. Some lecture exams during the semester may be online (taken by computer on-campus) and some may be in person (with paper and pencil in the classroom)- the exact schedule has not been determined.
Scheduled meetings: Mondays, 3:30 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. in HU112
Required Course Materials
*Textbook: to be determined. Please purchase by the first week of class.
Resources
*Study Guide/Powerpoint notes in Online Topic Learning Units - Links will be provided from course pages.
*Practice Quizzes - Links will be provided from course pages.
*Internet - web exploration to relevant web sites for each course topic. Course assignments may use these resources.
Study Tips
Study Time: Please make sure to set aside a regular time to study for this course. Pay attention to all deadlines for graded quizzes, assignments and exams.
