BIOSCI 100G Antarctica: The Frozen Continent

A general introduction to Antarctica and its environs including the Southern Ocean and the sub-Antarctic islands. Emphasis will be placed on the evolution of Antarctica and how resident plants, animals and micro-organisms have adapted to cope with the extreme environment. Specific topics to be addressed include: the history of Antarctic exploration and its impact on the development of Antarctic science, Antarctic ecosystems, Antarctica as a wilderness region, and the impact of humans including the exploitation of resources and the effects of pollution. This course is suitable for students with both science and non-science backgrounds.

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

1. Describe the main geographic features of Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. 
2. Explain the processes that regulate the Antarctic climate and ocean circulation and how this influences the rest of the planet. 
3. Describe and explain the physical features and ecological diversity of organisms in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean. 
4. Apply and integrate knowledge about the environment, life in the Antarctic and the activities of people in the region. 
5. Analyse current issues facing the Antarctic environment and/or the organisms living there. 
6. Select and analyse scholarly information from various sources (including electronic and print resources) in order to answer questions about Antarctica. 
7. Make predictions about future consequences of changes in the Antarctic environment on life in the region and globally. 
8. Communicate scientific ideas clearly and logically using academic language and formats. 
   

'The course plan and modules were well laid out, with concise yet comprehensive course notes. The lectorials and weekly tasks really helped to back up what was taught in the lectures. Overall this was a phenomenal course and probably the best laid out and well organised course I've taken at uni (and I'm in 3rd year)!'

'The lecturers were knowledgeable and passionate. I like that the course was split into 10 modules and a lot of interesting content was covered without getting too complicated or in depth. The weekly quizzes were helpful for consolidating knowledge and keeping on top of coursework. Overall, I really enjoyed the course.'

'The resources and organisation were outstanding. As a 3rd year student taking this first year course I was astounded at how many new skills I learnt that I wish I had been taught in my first year in my usual departments.'

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