Spring 2023
Covering Climate Change: How Science and Storytelling Intersect
Instructors: Chester Zarnoch (Natural Sciences) and Emily Johnson (Journalism)
This course explores the role journalism plays in calling the world’s attention to climate change—arguably the most important story of our time, but one that often falls off the front pages as other stories dominate the news cycle. Students will examine the intersection of science and storytelling and discuss the multitude of ways journalists across all types of media can approach climate coverage, from local New York stories about climate change adaptation to international reporting on green investments and climate migration. Students will obtain a deeper understanding of climate change science and develop the skills needed to communicate science to the public making it accessible, relatable, and actionable. The course will include guests speakers and field trips.
Spring 2022
How Does the Past Inform the Present: The Changing Landscapes of New York City
Instructors: Sarah Bengston (Natural Sciences) and Karen Shelby (Fine and Performing Arts)
This course explores the rich history of our climate-changed world and the ever-changing landscape of New York City, as captured by ecological and cultural institutions. Focused on the interplay between the Fine Arts and Environmental Sciences, New York City will serve as the point of investigation into the evolutionary and ecological origins of the green spaces remaining in the city, the impact of indigenous peoples and colonialism in North America, and the expansion of culture and civilization across the region. This investigation will be two-sided, but complementary: how were humans impacted by the environment and how has the environment impacted human culture? This course includes field trips to ecological hotspots, museums and exhibits. We will also be hearing from curators, historians, scientists, educators, and artists in the search for new forms of collaboration beyond the highly politicized issue of climate change.
Spring 2021
Natural and Human Dimensions of Climate Change
Instructors: Mindy Engle-Friedman (Psychology) and Chester Zarnoch (Natural Sciences)
This course explores the science of climate change with special emphasis on the nexus between natural systems and human cognition and behavior. Students examine the social and psychological adaptations human communities have already made and will likely have to make in the coming years due to global climate change. The course will include field trips to local ecosystems, guest lecturers, and research-based activities.