Geoscience

This course (including laboratory) explores the way that tribal peoples around the world have approached some of the classic questions of scientific inquiry. Specific topics include -ethnocentrism in science as well as indigenous approaches to logic, math, and knowledge of the physical environment (i.e., geology, astronomy). Special emphasis will fall upon Alaska Native approaches to climate and ecology. Labs serve as vehicles to learn scientific methodology and to provide evidence to illustrate topics presented in lectures. Meets the general education requirement for a 4-credit natural science course with laboratory.

This course will explore topics that are relevant to the environment today to include the local region, such as the effects of thawing permafrost on the land and infrastructure, and the effects of atmospheric and oceanic changes on seasonal hunting.