UCC/UGC/ECCC
Proposal for New Course
Please attach proposed Syllabus in approved university format.
1. Course subject and number: EES 209
2. Units:
See upper and lower division undergraduate course definitions.
3. College:
CEFNS
4. Academic Unit:
1-6
SESES
5. Student Learning Outcomes of the new course. (Resources & Examples for Developing Course Learning
Outcomes)
Example learning outcomes:
1. Demonstrate academic progress and intellectual development in the content area
 Understand the unique plate tectonic setting of the Mediterranean and Cyclades
 Describe caldera-forming eruption processes and the volcanic history of Santorini
 Describe in-situ (in place) volcanic rocks and interpret their spatial relationships to one
another
 Create, analyze, and interpret geologic data through space and time using traditional
methods (field notes/measurements) and cutting edge methods (iPads)
 Describe geologic hazards related to volcanic eruptions and Santorini in particular
 Evaluate the risk for geologic hazards related to volcanic eruptions in the Aegean Sea
 Explain the regional and global impacts of explosive volcanic eruptions
2. Demonstrate personal growth in the areas of self-confidence, decision-making skills, and
critical-thinking skills
 Describe what it means to be “the other,” as an outsider in a culture that is different than
your own
 Demonstrate social and emotional growth in the areas of independence, selfconfidence, and leadership.
3. Advance your understanding of the world in support of NAU’s Global Learning Initiative,
including heightened intercultural awareness and an understanding and appreciation for
human difference
 Engage with people of the host country via language, food, & local transportation
methods
 Demonstrate improvement of language skills
 Describe how geology influences local architecture, lifestyle, and food production
4. Increase and improve spatial awareness
 Demonstrate use of iPads to create geo-referenced field notes
 Analyze and interpret satellite imagery
5. Articulate how international study abroad experience is relevant and beneficial to future career
opportunities such as improved academic performance and increased eligibility for
scholarships, grants, or internships
1
6. Justification for new course, including how the course contributes to degree program outcomes,
or other university requirements / student learning outcomes. (Resources, Examples & Tools for Developing
Effective Program Student Learning Outcomes).
SESES currently has one faculty-led study abroad class that is offered every summer. More
faculty-led courses may be developed in the future and therefore the course needs a
permanent special topics course number.
Skills taught in the current international field course “NAU in Greece: The Cataclysmic
Eruption of Santorini Volcano” are in the areas of geologic field methods and writing for the
web and general public. The learning outcomes bolster and support skill sets taught in many
undergraduate level geology classes including GLG240, Introduction to Field Methods and
GLG350W, Geologic Communications and Topics. Please see sample syllabus for details.
7. Effective BEGINNING of what term and year?
See effective dates calendar.
Spring 2015
8. Long course title:
INTERNATIONAL FIELD EXPERIENCE IN EARTH SCIENCE &
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
(max 100 characters including spaces)
9. Short course title: INTERNATIONAL FIELD EXPERIENCE
(max. 30 characters including spaces)
10. Catalog course description (max. 60 words, excluding requisites):
International field experience to study geological and/or environmental problems in depth.
Location and length of classes vary.
11. Will this course be part of any plan (major, minor or certificate) or sub plan (emphasis)?
Yes
If yes, include the appropriate plan proposal.
No
12. Does this course duplicate content of existing courses?
Yes
No
If yes, list the courses with duplicate material. If the duplication is greater than 20%, explain why
NAU should establish this course.
13. Will this course impact any other academic unit’s enrollment or plan(s)?
Yes
No
If yes, describe the impact. If applicable, include evidence of notification to and/or response from
each impacted academic unit
14. Grading option:
Letter grade
Pass/Fail
Both
15. Co-convened with:
14a. UGC approval date*:
(For example: ESE 450 and ESE 550) See co-convening policy.
*Must be approved by UGC before UCC submission, and both course syllabi must be presented.
2
16. Cross-listed with:
(For example: ES 450 and DIS 450) See cross listing policy.
Please submit a single cross-listed syllabus that will be used for all cross-listed courses.
17. May course be repeated for additional units?
16a. If yes, maximum units allowed?
18
16b. If yes, may course be repeated for additional units in the same term?
Yes
No
Yes
No
18. Prerequisites:
Specific to the topic
If prerequisites, include the rationale for the prerequisites.
Current topic prerequisites are GLG112 and GLG112L or GLG101 and GLG103 with grades of
B or better. The current topic requires that students have introductory knowledge of rocks,
plate tectonics, volcanic eruptions, and earthquakes. Students are required to have some
basic knowledge of minerals, rocks, volcanic processes, and plate tectonics to be successful
in this class.
19. Co requisites:
If co requisites, include the rationale for the co requisites.
20. Does this course include combined lecture and lab components?
Yes
No
If yes, include the units specific to each component in the course description above.
Lisa Skinner, Nancy Riggs, Kerry
Grimm, Taylor Joyal, Robert
Sanford, Carrie Brugger-Schorr,
21. Names of the current faculty qualified to teach this course: Scott Anderson, Erik Nielson
22. Classes scheduled before the regular term begins and/or after the regular term ends may require
additional action. Review “see description” and “see impacts” for “Classes Starting/Ending
Outside Regular Term” under the heading “Forms”
http://nau.edu/Registrar/Faculty-Resources/Schedule-of-Classes-Maintenance/.
Do you anticipate this course will be scheduled outside the regular term?
Yes
No
23. Is this course being proposed for Liberal Studies designation?
If yes, include a Liberal Studies proposal and syllabus with this proposal.
Yes
No
24. Is this course being proposed for Diversity designation?
If yes, include a Diversity proposal and syllabus with this proposal.
Yes
No
Answer 22-23 for UCC/ECCC only:
FLAGSTAFF MOUNTAIN CAMPUS
3
Scott Galland
Reviewed by Curriculum Process Associate
2/18/2015
Date
Approvals:
Department Chair/Unit Head (if appropriate)
Date
Chair of college curriculum committee
Date
Dean of college
Date
For Committee use only:
UCC/UGC Approval
Approved as submitted:
Approved as modified:
Date
Yes
Yes
No
No
EXTENDED CAMPUSES
Reviewed by Curriculum Process Associate
Date
Approvals:
Academic Unit Head
Date
Division Curriculum Committee (Yuma, Yavapai, or Personalized Learning)
Date
Division Administrator in Extended Campuses (Yuma, Yavapai, or Personalized
Learning)
Date
Faculty Chair of Extended Campuses Curriculum Committee (Yuma, Yavapai, or
Personalized Learning)
Date
Chief Academic Officer; Extended Campuses (or Designee)
Date
4
Approved as submitted:
Approved as modified:
Yes
Yes
No
No
SAMPLE TOPIC SYLLABUS
EES209: International Field Experience in Earth Science & Environmental Sustainability - The
Cataclysmic Eruption of Santorini Volcano
Summer 2015
Lisa Skinner
Geology Program, School of Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability
Office: Bldg 12, Room 221; Office phone: 928-523-5814; Mobile phone: 928-699-1352
Email: Lisa.Skinner@nau.edu
Study abroad credit:
This is a 3-credit study abroad course, which may apply as a general elective or major/minor elective
by petition. Prerequisites are completion of GLG112 & GLG112L OR GLG101 & GLG103 with
grades B or better. Minimum GPA of 2.5 required. Must be 18 years of age.
What is this course about?
In the late Bronze Age, sometime between 1650 and 1525 BC, the Grecian volcano Santorini
catastrophically erupted causing the island to partially sink into the Aegean Sea. The eruption is
thought to be the source of the legend of Atlantis, where in 360 BC, Plato wrote of a city that sank into
the sea in a “single day and night of misfortune.” This study abroad course takes you to the active
volcano, where you will study the caldera-forming eruption that likely contributed to the downfall of an
ancient, advanced civilization. While on Santorini you will learn about the processes that generate
cataclysmic volcanic eruptions and you will study the ancient and modern volcanic hazards
associated with such eruptions. You will have the opportunity to study the bizarre landscapes and
landforms of volcanic islands, explore 4,000 year-old Minoan ruins buried by the last explosive
volcanic eruption, walk on and study an active volcano, swim in hot springs, tour the island by private
boat, among many other unique experiences, all while being immersed in Greek island culture. This
course is certified with NAU’s First Year Learning Initiative.
What are the course objectives and what will you learn?
A study abroad class in volcanology and volcanic hazards integrates science with student global
engagement. As such, the following learning outcomes will be met:
1. Demonstrate academic progress and intellectual development in the content area
 Understand the unique plate tectonic setting of the Mediterranean and Cyclades
 Describe caldera-forming eruption processes and the volcanic history of Santorini
 Describe in-situ (in place) volcanic rocks and interpret their spatial relationships to one
another
 Create, analyze, and interpret geologic data through space and time using traditional
methods (field notes/measurements) and cutting edge methods (iPads)
 Describe geologic hazards related to volcanic eruptions and Santorini in particular
 Evaluate the risk for geologic hazards related to volcanic eruptions in the Aegean Sea
 Explain the regional and global impacts of explosive volcanic eruptions
5
2. Demonstrate personal growth in the areas of self-confidence, decision-making skills, and
critical-thinking skills
 Describe what it means to be “the other,” as an outsider in a culture that is different than
your own
 Demonstrate social and emotional growth in the areas of independence, selfconfidence, and leadership.
3. Advance your understanding of the world in support of NAU’s Global Learning Initiative,
including heightened intercultural awareness and an understanding and appreciation for
human difference
 Engage with people of the host country via language, food, & local transportation
methods
 Demonstrate improvement of language skills
 Describe how geology influences local architecture, lifestyle, and food production
4. Increase and improve spatial awareness
 Demonstrate use of iPads to create geo-referenced field notes
 Analyze and interpret satellite imagery
5. Articulate how international study abroad experience is relevant and beneficial to future career
opportunities such as improved academic performance and increased eligibility for
scholarships, grants, or internships
Student Responsibilities
How should I prepare for this class and leaving the country?
 One pre-departure orientation held by the Center for International Education is required
 Two pre-departure meetings specific to the class are required
 Basic Greek fundamentals (lessons provided)
 Obtain credit/debit cards (if needed)
 Pay attention to required and recommended equipment/packing lists
What are my responsibilities while abroad in Greece?
A set of behavioral norms will be established as a group. They will include but are not limited to:
 Prepare for, attend, and participate in class every day
 Behave professionally
 Respect and look out for your fellow students
 Respect the locals, culture, and landscape
 Complete all coursework
What work will I be required to complete?
 Attendance and participation in pre-departure meetings
 Attendance and participation in daily activities while abroad
 Greek language fundamentals
 Pre-trip survey
 Assessments
 Complete geologic field notebook
 Complete travel journal
 Blog
 Post-trip survey
6
How should I take notes and study?
Taking notes in a field-based class is significantly different than taking notes in a lecture or lab. Notetaking occurs on the go and requires an attention to details you may not be used to writing down
(such as your location, the direction you are facing, the weather, etc.). You will be provided with a
rubric on best note-taking practices for geological fieldwork. A large portion of the class will be spent
on learning how to keep a geological field notebook.
Field-based classes are an intense learning environment where “studying” is happening all the time.
You may keep a section in your field notebook for questions to address in the evening. Reading (and
re-reading) your textbook and field guide to prepare as well as address questions should occur on a
daily basis.
What are my responsibilities upon return to the U.S.?
 Complete the post-trip survey
 Advertise your experiences to friends and family!
Health and Safety
The following is a list of health and safety tips for travel abroad (in general) and to Greece specifically.
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Remove all superfluous credit cards/documents from your wallet.
Pack a copy of your passport, insurance information, and credit/debit cards and store them in a
location that is separate than the original documents.
Leave a copy of your passport with a relative or friend here in the US.
Do not carry anything in your hand luggage that can be considered a weapon (including
matches or a lighter).
Put your name and address on each piece of luggage.
If you take prescription medicine, bring enough to last the duration of the trip.
Make sure all of your medications are labeled.
Do not take any packages/letters/other material from any strangers under any circumstances.
Do not accept rides from strangers.
Do not walk alone at night.
Do not carry your passport around with you (it is safer left in the hotel room).
Do not carry money or other important documents in locations on your body that can be easily
pick-pocketed (back pockets; unzipped bags/purses).
Always have your bag/purse attached to your person.
When using public transportation (taxis) – negotiate the price of the trip before you leave.
Beware of guard dogs
Use caution on the roads and in traffic (Santorini roads can be crowded)
Do not play games or dares (especially involving alcohol) around the caldera rim. The rim is
extremely steep and can be very dangerous.
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Equipment
Required equipment:
 Prescription medications if needed
(including emergency allergy
medications)
 Pens and pencils
 Sunscreen
 Trail running sneakers or hiking boots
(good soles, good support for walking
on rocks and slopes)
 Bathing suit, beach towel (at least one)
 Small day pack
 A watch (you will not be able to rely on
your phone for the time)
 Active clothing including short and long
sleeve shirts, shorts, pants, sandals,
and a fleece or wind jacket. Prepare for
the weather to be variable (mid 60’s to
low 80’s). Santorini can be very windy
on the caldera rim.
 International voltage converter for
southern Europe
 1 field notebook: Moleskine or Rite in
Rain (blank)
 1 travel journal (blank)
Recommended equipment:
 Sandals that strap on your feet or water
shoes (for swimming in ocean)
 Large backpack as luggage (duffle bags
work). Transfer from airport to metro to
ferry requires lots of walking on narrow,
cobblestone streets (some with steps)
so it is best to carry your luggage on
your back instead of rolling it.
 Sunglasses
 Hat
 Water bladder (2L capacity such as a
camelback) or 2 1L water bottles
 Camera
 Dramamine (if you get sea sick)
 Ear plugs
Equipment provided for you:
 Textbook
 iPad/utility latch/stylus
 Hand lens
 Folding metric ruler
 Trowel
 Grain size measurement card
Packing and travelling
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Pack only one bag that you can carry easily
Wear comfortable clothes on the plane (including comfortable shoes for walking)
Pack a tooth brush, essential medications, and extra underwear in your carry-on luggage
You will have the opportunity to do laundry while we are there so no need to pack 3 weeks
worth of clothes (7-8 days of clothes is reasonable)
Personal items such as shampoo, conditioner, soap, etc. can be purchased (if necessary) at
the grocery store
8
Communicating with home
 There is no need to get international cell phone coverage while abroad. The hotel has free wifi and so does nearly every café and restaurant. You can communicate through
text/Facetime/Skype via wifi.
Accessing money while abroad
 Call your banks/credit card companies to alert them that you will be travelling out of the
country. Find out what charges they employ for using the card while abroad (most credit
card/debit cards have a 1-2% fee per transaction).
 Unless making a large purchase, try to pay for everything in cash while abroad to avoid a lot of
bank fees. A best practice is to bring an ATM card and withdrawal lump sums of cash. ATMs
will give you the most current exchange rate.
How will I be graded?
Greek language fundamentals
Pre and post trip surveys
Attendance/participation in pre-departure meetings
Professionalism
Travel journal
Complete geologic field notebook
Assessments (3)
Blog (3 posts)
1%
2%
3%
5%
5%
15%
24%
45%
100%
10 pts
20 pts
30 pts
50 pts
50 pts
150 pts
240 pts
450 pts
1000 pts
A = >89.5% (895-1000 pts)
B = 79.5-89.4% (795-894 pts)
C = 69.5-79.4% (695-794 pts)
D = 59.5-69.4% (595-694 pts)
F = <59.4% (<594 pts)
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Greek language fundamentals: You are required to learn the basics of the Greek language so
you can communicate with locals who may not speak English while abroad.
Assessments: Before departure, you must complete the pre-trip assessment. Other
assessments will test your knowledge as we progress with the class abroad.
Geologic field notebook: The quality and completeness of your field notebook will be graded.
A rubric will be provided.
Travel Journal: The completeness of your travel journal will be graded. A rubric will be
provided.
Blog: The blog is the main component of your grade for this class. The blog will be a
reflection of two aspects of your learning: 1) disciplinary knowledge and skills gained from the
formal curriculum and 2) global awareness and perspectives gained from international
experience. A rubric will be provided with requirements for blog writing.
Professionalism: Points will be docked for tardiness, coming to class unprepared (including
being hung over or otherwise incapacitated), and other unprofessional behavior. You are a
representative of NAU while abroad; make sure that our university and country have a good
reputation.
Surveys: The surveys are an opportunity for you to assess the class and provide constructive
feedback on improvements.
Late work: All assignments have firm due dates. Late work is not accepted.
Effective Fall 2012
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Challenges to Assigned Grades - Challenges to assigned grades on individual assignments
are your right. However, I will only consider challenges presented in writing. A written format
allows you to present an articulate and well-considered argument as well as providing a record
of the grade challenge process in case there are questions at a later time. Challenges must be
submitted within one week of the return of a graded assignment.
Incompletes – University policy prohibits the assignment of an “incomplete” grade except in
extreme circumstances that are beyond the student’s control. To receive an incomplete
requires the processing of a formal contract between the student and the faculty member
documenting how and when the missing course materials will be completed.
See the NAU Policy Statements for more information: http://www4.nau.edu/avpaa/policy1.html
**This is a working document – all information including course calendar and grading is subject to
change. If so, you will be notified***
Tentative Schedule
Day
Date
4/5
4/26
Location
NAU
NAU
1
5/29
U.S.
2
3
4
5
5/30
5/31
6/1
6/2
Plaka
Plaka
Fira
Fira
6
7
8
9
10
11
6/3
6/4
6/5
6/6
6/7
6/8
Fira
Fira
Fira
Fira
Fira
Fira
12
6/9
Fira
13
14
15
16
17
6/10
6/11
6/12
6/13
6/14
Fira
18
6/15
Fira
19
20
6/16
6/17
Fira
Fira
21
6/18
Fira
How do explosive volcanic eruptions preserve surface environments? (Tour
of Ancient Akroteri)
Blog research/writing
What happened during the Minoan eruption? (Cape Mavropetra – phase 4)
Blog writing
Day off
How are older eruptions different than the Minoan eruption? (Red Beach;
Cape Akroteri)
What do older volcanic eruptions look like? How do you tell relative age of
a rock? (Hike from Fira to Oia)
Blog research/writing
What is the volcano doing now? How can you tell relative age of rocks?
(boat trip inside the caldera)
Blog writing
22
6/19
Fira
Return to the U.S.
Fira
Fira
Fira
Effective Fall 2012
Activity
Pre-departure meeting (logistics and pre-departure survey) (12-2 pm)
Pre-departure meeting (geography, geology, geological field methods) (112 pm)
Depart for Athens
Arrive in Athens
Acropolis, Acropolis Museum, Ancient Agora
Ferry to Santorini; What is the plate tectonic setting of Santorini?
Why is Santorini shaped this way? How do you describe rocks? (Hike up to
Ancient Thera)
Blog research/writing
How do you describe rocks? (Katharos Beach?)
Blog writing
What happened during the Minoan eruption? (Cape Plaka – phases 1-3)
What happened during the Minoan eruption? (Fira Quarry – phases 1-2)
What happened during the Minoan eruption? (Vichada beach – phases 0-3)
Assignments
Pre-departure
assessment due;
basic Greek complete
1st assessment
(1st blog subject
formulated)
1st blog post due
2nd assessment
(2nd blog subject
formulated)
2nd blog post due
(3rd blog subject
formulated)
3rd blog post due
3rd Assessment
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Classroom/field work begins at 10 am and ends by ~5 pm every day
Students travel and eat lunch together on all classroom/field work days
Effective Fall 2012