2009-2010

Introduction to the analysis of human population including fertility, mortality dispersion, sex distribution. Attention is focused on the effects of these variables on, e.g., over-population, social disorganization, and the stability of social institutions.

An introduction to the physical world we live in. Distribution and dynamics of the earth’s air, water, and solid crust. Concepts and principles from climatology and geology. Selected examples from North America and beyond.

Human behavior in a geographical context. Spatial patterns and organization of the cultural, social, and economic activities of man as imposed on and influenced by the earth’s physical setting.

Lecture, three hours; discussion, one hour. Introduction to geologic principles and applications to environmental problems. Topics include: tectonic processes, earth materials, soils, river processes, groundwater, the coastal environment, slope failures, seismic hazards, mineral resources, and land-use evaluation based on geologic conditions. Examples from case studies. Prerequisite: Social Ecology E8.

Lecture, three hours. Basic elements of environmental design such as scale, proportion, rhythm, color, sound, lighting, surfaces, texture, architectural definition of spaces, volumes, massing volumetric analysis, solids and voids, and cultural aspects of design. Excitement and creativity in design, imageability. Prerequisites: Planning, Policy, and Design 4 and 152.

Examines theories of conflict management. Analyzes how conflict is mitigated in diverse cultures: at the interpersonal level, between groups, and on the international scale. Students discuss readings, hear from conflict management practitioners, and simulate negotiations.

Lecture, three hours. Important substantive areas, concepts, tools in the field of urban and regional planning. Topics include: forces that have historically guided and are currently guiding U.S. urbanization; land use, economic development, housing and community development, environmental planning; legal, environmental, governmental contexts. Prerequisite: Planning, Policy, and Design 4.

Fuel-cell systems design, operation, and materials. Electrochemistry and electrocatalysis, cell degradation, nature of fuel-cell electrodes and electrolytes, fuels, and fuel processing. Provides broad insight into fuel-cell science, technology, system design, and operation. Prerequisite: MAE110.

Considers the process of economic development across the globe and why some countries are rich and others poor. Discusses the major problems facing developing countries, such as population growth, education, capital formation, environmental protection, and international trade. Prerequisites: Economics 20A-B