Understanding the Greenhouse Effect:: Is Global Warming Real? An Integrated Lab-Lecture Case Study for Non-science Majors

• R. Brzenk ^[1] ; A. Moore ^[1] ; M. J. Alfano ^[1] ; P. T. Buckley ^[1] ; M. E. Newman ^[1] ; Frank M. Dunnivant ^[2]
  1. [1] Hartwick College

     Hartwick College

     City of Oneonta, Estados Unidos

     
  2. [2] Whitman College

     Whitman College

     Estados Unidos

     
• Localización: Journal of chemical education, ISSN 0021-9584, Vol. 77, Nº 12 (December), 2000, págs. 1602-1602
• Idioma: inglés
• Texto completo no disponible (Saber más ...)
• Resumen

  • Numerous colleges and universities offer chemistry, geology, biology, and mathematics courses for students not majoring in science. However, these courses are often taught in a segmented format, spread over a four-year period, with separate lectures and laboratories, and in different departments. We are experimenting with a series of courses that combine a variety of disciplines into three courses that are taught in an integrated lab-lecture format using case studies and guided-inquiry teaching methods. We have developed a variety of modules for these courses. This article describes one case-study module that allows the student to evaluate data sets to study greenhouse gases and determine if global warming is real and due to anthropogenic activities. The exercise stresses hands-on activities and includes performing two laboratory exercises, the use of two computer programs, a mathematical exercise, an Internet and spreadsheet exercise, and interpretation of scientific data sets and figures. The entire module requires at least 18 contact hours.