John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
John Taylor, Professor of Economics at Stanford University and developer of the "Taylor Rule" for setting interest rates | Stanford University
Stanford University's Introduction to Earth Systems course, known as Earth Systems 10, offers students an opportunity to explore sustainability challenges through lectures, debates, and field trips. The course aims to make environmental science accessible to students from all disciplines by breaking down complex concepts and fostering a dynamic learning environment.
"This is a space that’s specifically catered to people who don’t know much about environmental science or our climate crisis," said Aiyana Washington, a head teaching assistant and Earth Systems graduate student. "We break down a lot of complex concepts and work to create an enriching and dynamic experience."
The course covers various pressing questions related to climate change, biodiversity, food security, coral reefs, and fossil fuels. Kevin Arrigo, the course instructor and Donald M. Steel Professor of Earth Sciences at Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability, emphasized the integration of science and policy across topics relevant to many students.
"Our greatest strength stems from our stellar team of teaching assistants that provide the critical connective tissue linking the diverse set of topics covered by our extraordinary slate of speakers," said Arrigo.
A total of 28 experts discuss subjects such as Earth history, climate change, oceans conservation, sustainable food production, energy science, among others. The teaching assistants are former students representing different academic tracks within the program.
Richard Nevle, another instructor and deputy director of the Earth Systems Program highlighted the course's objective: "We want to help educate students to become engaged citizens." Nevle noted that the curriculum encourages students from various fields like medicine or business to engage with sustainability issues.
Nevle explained that the course starts with outlining Earth's systems before delving into human impacts on these systems. He stated: "You have lectures by faculty from across the university who are world experts in their fields."
Arrigo expressed enthusiasm for Tom Hayden's unique approach during lectures: "I love all the lectures given in EARTHSYS 10 but...Tom Hayden leading the class in a rousing rendition of 'Itsy Bitsy Spider.'"
Students participate in field trips offering hands-on experiences with sustainability practices at locations such as Stanford’s Jasper Ridge Biological Preserve and Peninsula Sanitary Service Inc. The teaching assistants also facilitate seminars weekly for deeper understanding.
Washington noted how TAs connect content with students: "There’s a lot of care put into the curriculum." Additionally they oversee week 8 town hall simulations where participants assume roles like scientists or landowners negotiating environmental challenges.
Nevle described this simulation as revealing complexity in problem-solving processes: "The town hall gives students a chance to see how contentious...the process...is."
Beyond academics this introductory course fosters community connections among participants who form lasting memories alongside classmates instructors guest lecturers field trip guides throughout their journey together according Washington it was meaningful even after she became TA herself describing experience full-circle moment
Arrigo concluded stating goal inspire holistic thinking planet human interactions wanting them understand what why how diverse topics he serves professor senior fellow Stanford Woods Institute Environment member Bio-X
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