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Revision 2 closed, replaced by current version.
Delivery mode: Individualized study.
Credits: 3 - Social Science
Prerequisite: None.
Centre: Centre for Global and Social Analysis
ENVS 435 has a Challenge for Credit option.
ENVS 435 is a senior-level, 3-credit social science course. It’s an individualized-study version of an international field course in participatory education with an emphasis upon community-based environmental issues. Designed by adult educators and community workers in Canada and Asia, the course was field tested in Alberta and Newfoundland. A key to the design of the course is the contribution by groups involved in the environmental controversies and community development issues in Canada. Their issues form the basis for case studies on parks and tourism, consumerism, pulp mills, and river diversion.
Each case study has three sections: local issues; practical skills and popular education techniques; and global connections. Students are expected to conduct a series of workshops and interviews through which they will learn how to analyze the methods others use to address local environmental issues. This will help them to identify their own and other people’s worldviews, issues in their communities, and possible solutions to achieving sustainability.
Upon completion of ENVS 435, students should be able to achieve the following course learning objectives:
Unit 1: Popular Education, Environment, and Community Development
Unit 2: Notions About Ecology
Unit 3: Cross-Cultural Perspectives on Nature
Unit 4: Environmental Impact Assessment and Community Participation
Unit 5: Strategies and Tactics for Community Environmental Protection
Unit 6: The Dilemma of Tourism and Parks and Protected Areas
Unit 7: Consumerism
To receive credit for ENVS 435, you must achieve a grade of at least 60 percent on the final assignment, and a course composite grade of at least “D” (50 percent). You must complete all assignments. The weighting of the composite grade is as follows:
Assignment 1 | Assignments 2 to 6 @15% each | Assignment 7 | Total |
---|---|---|---|
pass/fail | 75% | 25% | 100% |
To learn more about assignments and examinations, please refer to Athabasca University's online Calendar.
The course materials also include a study guide, a student manual, and a collection of readings and reports.