BENP1005 Humans and the Environment (5 cr)

Study level:
Basic studies
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
Finnish
Responsible organisation:
Department of Biological and Environmental Science
Coordinating organisation:
Department of Biological and Environmental Science, Open University
Curriculum periods:
2024-2025, 2025-2026, 2026-2027, 2027-2028

Tweet text

Fundamentals of environmental science.

Description

Critical evaluation of the interactions between human activities, the environment and ecological factors and how these influence the state of the environment in Finland or globally. The topics are covered in thematic lectures and group work is done on a specific topic in small groups. The specific themes covered may vary between years, but generally cover urbanisation, renewable and non-renewable energy sources, the effects of climate change, threats and posed by chemical pollution for health of humans and the nature and the prerequisites of sustainable development.

Learning outcomes

After completing the course, the student understands the most important interactions between humans and natural and the causes of environmental problems, and learns to consider solutions to these problems.

In the course, the student develops critical thinking skills, team work skills and understanding of environmental problems. The student practices search for scientific information and synthesis as part of working on a written assignment in a small group. 

As part of the group work, the student practices preparing a presentation on the group work topic in environmental science. 

Description of prerequisites

Attended BENP1001, BENP1002 and BENP1004 before participating in this course.

Study materials

Lecture materials, exercise work reports, and seminar presentations in Moodle.

Completion methods

Method 1

Description:
Participation in lectures and active participation in thematic group work and seminars. Returning a written report and giving a seminar presentation as a group work. Final exam.
Evaluation criteria:
Exercise work evaluated group-wise 1/3, exam evaluated individually 2/3. Grading scale 0 – 5.
Time of teaching:
Period 4, Period 3
Select all marked parts
Parts of the completion methods
x

Teaching (5 cr)

Type:
Participation in teaching
Grading scale:
0-5
Language:
Finnish

Teaching