Learning objectives for this course include:

An understanding of the components that comprise the climate system, including the
atmosphere, the hydrosphere, the cryosphere, the land surface and the biosphere, and
how they interact to influence climate.

An understanding of the physical forces that govern atmospheric pressure and motion.

An understanding of mechanisms that drive water and energy cycles in the
earth-atmosphere system.

An understanding of weather systems, including mid-latitude cyclones and hurricanes.

An ability to recognize the interactions between human activities, modification of
the earth-atmosphere system, and changes to climate.

A greater appreciation of the importance of science in our everyday lives and its
role in influencing policy decision making.


This course meets the following General Education Abilities by accomplishing the
specific learning objectives listed below:

Communicate effectively through writing.  This is met by a series of writing 
assignments associated with supplemental reading and data analysis.
 
Communicate effectively through speech.  This is met by oral presentations, 
discussion leading, and classroom participation.

Computer Literacy is addressed through course administration, student-faculty 
electronic interaction, and data analysis activities and assignments.

Critical Thinking is central to the learning objectives of this class, and is
developed through homework assignments, lecture, classroom discussion, and inquiry-
based learning efforts.

Introduction
Earth’s Radiation Budget
Energy and Temperature
Hydrologic Cycle
Atmospheric Motion
Mid-latitude Weather and Climate
Tropical Weather and Climate
Regional Climates
Local Climates
Human Interaction with Climate
Climate Change
Climate Modeling