Marine Environments Modern and Ancient
Instructor: Bruce W. Selleck, 304 Lathrop Hall
Evaluation:
Class participation and presentations – 40%
Field reports, data analyses and interpretation - 20%
Final paper - 40%
The focus of Geology 426 this term will be the evolution of the composition of ocean water through time. The course will have a reading/seminar component focusing on the recent literature and a field/lab component involving analysis of the stable isotopic composition of brachiopods from the Paleozoic of New York State.
The success of this project will depend on individual and group initiative, and will require good planning and cooperative effort. You will be expected to plan your own field excursions to key localities to collect samples, schedule lab time for sample preparation, and share results with colleagues.
Readings for the course will be selected from the primary literature by participants in the class and you should expect to read 2-3 research papers per week to prepare for our class meetings. You will be asked to present summaries of papers on a regular basis. Class participation and the quality of your presentations will be the primary factors in evaluation. A major final paper and presentation is also required.
If you have a learning or physical disability that might affect your performance in this class, please inform Lynn Waldman, Director of Academic Program Support and Disability Services, x7225, to verify your status and provide you with appropriate assistance, and then Bruce with accommodations determined by that office