GEOGRPH 100 - Physical Geography - Mary Bates
| Course: | Physical Geography |
|---|---|
| Professor: | Mary Bates |
| Email: | mary.bates@canyons.edu |
| Format: |
|
| Course Length: |
|
Introduction
You will learn about Earth's seasons and the distribution and causes of our natural environments on land, in the air, and in our oceans - and why things happen in some places and not in others. You will also learn how we humans can live more gently to our Earth.
Course Description
The topics covered in this introductory Physical Geography course over 5 weeks, will include the following:
Introduction to Earth - Latitude and Longitude, maps, time zones, seasons, climate and its changes, weather and atmosphere, oceans, landforms modified by rivers, glaciers, landslides, coastlines, and plate tectonics, and how humans modify the environment.
What to Expect in this Course
Is an online class right for you?
Basic required technical and personal study skills needed:
- Basic computer literacy, including skills in Internet navigation and basic document creation.
- Reliable, consistent Internet access such as Firefox, Explorer, Safari, Google Chrome, etc.).
- There is a student Canvas app, but it is not as complete as a computer version, so don't rely on your phone to take this course.
- You need to create a free Zoom account for synchronous office hours. (https://zoom.us)
- Access to word processing required, such as Microsoft Word or Google docs, etc…
- You will need either a printer or knowledge of editing a pdf in order to submit exercises.
- You will need either a scanner or a free scanning app on your phone (Genius Scan is one example).
- Online courses require more time and effort than traditional, on-ground offerings. You are expected to handle a substantial workload in this time. Plan on this course taking at least 5-10 hours/week of your time. There is a considerable amount of reading and interactive activities online.
- Students who do well in online courses tend to share the following qualities:
- They are very self-motivated, consistently meet deadlines ahead of time, to bypass any tech issues.
- They do not take shortcuts by googling questions without reading the material presented by professors.
- They are strong, critical readers and communicate clearly and effectively.
- They often communicate with the professor, via inbox messaging, or through Zoom office hours.
- They have strong time management skills.
- They do not plagiarize or cheat.
- They know the core rules of Netiquette and how to communicate respectfully online. Check out: http://www.albion.com/netiquette/corerules.html You as students, and I as your instructor, are all responsible for creating a safe and respectful learning environment in our class, by being mindful of diverse opinions and beliefs from a variety of lifestyles, backgrounds, and experiences.
Types of Assessments
You will be graded on weekly written exercises, online discussion boards, and exams.
More details will be available on your syllabus on the first day of class.
Expect to spend at least a minimum of 10 hours per week on this course. You will be given the same material given in a 15-week course, so triple-time is needed.
Textbook Information
No textbook is required for you to purchase for this course. I will provide all you need.
Other Relevant Course Information
You will do best if you meet with me on Zoom for any questions and tutoring. I can show, draw, and explain concepts better through Zoom than through email. Yet, any Q&A with me is better than none. I am available most times at your convenience.
Additional Resources
Canvas
This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at https://coc.instructure.com. Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:
- CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
- CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password
Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. Canvas Chat Support is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.
Online Education
Check out the Online Education website for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.
The Learning Center (TLC)
The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!
Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)
College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.
Online Counseling
The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.
Management of Stress and Mental Health
Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.
Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.
You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.
Veterans Resource Center
The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.
Library
The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!
Last updated: 06/04/2021 Sub#: 2