Contents of Class Sessions and Objectves

• Presentation and explanation of oceanographic themes and concepts.
• The order of discussion of topics generally follows that in the text.
• Explanation and elaboration of critical aspects of each topic to reinforce the text. 
• Many topics are presented differently from the text, to augment learning. 
• Use of maps, images, diagrams and movies to illustrate key points.
• Most critical is the description accompanying their explanation.
• Figures may be derived from the text, or take an alternative perspective.
• Various approaches may be adopted to help explain key concepts.

• Summaries of principal themes and concepts are provided as notes on the internet.
• Pdf files of lecture presentations can be downloaded from Oncourse (Group Spaces within In Touch).
  
• Discussion questions and learning prompts are available via the resources link.
• Class attendance aids comprehension of the visual materials.
  
• These materials are not a substitute for your own comprehensive notes,  reading, and review.
• The questions, prompts, notes and visuals are aids to learning.
• Memorization of their contents does not ensure success.
• The primary learning objective is to understand the concepts.

• The aspects of oceanography covered in class include:
• Most, but not necessarily all, of the components of the text.
  
• Coverage of some issues will include additional information not presented in the text.
  
• Attendance is not mandatory and no roll calls will be taken.
• As responsible adults the benefits of class attendance should be evident!
• There is a strong correlation between grades and class attendance.
• Exam scores of regular attendees average 13% higher than casual attendees
• What you learn does depend on your efforts!
• Please ask for help if you don't understand course materials or concepts.

• The questions are intended to focus on concepts as an aid to understanding.
• Please contribute to the in-class discussions. 
• All questions are important as they contribute to learning.
• The learning prompts are opportunities to help clarify your understanding by discussion with your neighbors in class.
• They are designed to reinforce major points and to ensure that critical concepts are understood.
• The on-line reflective questions require submission of answers to selected learning to further reinforce specific concepts.
  

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Department of Geological Sciences,  1001 E. Tenth Street, Bloomington, IN 47405-1403 Phone: (812) 855-5582  Last updated: 7 January 2007 Comments: simon'at'indiana.edu Copyright 2007, The Trustees of Indiana University

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