Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2025 - REM 100 D100

Global Change (3)

Class Number: 3113

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 3 – Dec 2, 2025: Mon, Wed, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 10, 2025
    Wed, 8:30–10:30 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

The Earth is experiencing the most dramatic environmental changes it has for thousands of years. How did we end up here? Provides an interdisciplinary perspective on the forces behind our ever-increasing environmental footprint. Highlights how ideologies and societal structures have shaped how we interact with the environment and explores the necessary changes for a more sustainable future. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course provides students with an overview of global environmental change and its causes, from a social science perspective, historically and throughout the contemporary era. The course is organized into four sections:

  • The first section introduces the basics of ecological systems, environmental history and thinking, including the area of environmental ethics and philosophy, and environmental economics.
  • The second section explores the notion of environmental change, including a review of several models of environmental change and conflicting positions on where we are headed.
  • The third section addresses the emerging concept of sustainable development and looks at strategies to get us there.
  • The fourth section of the course includes a selection of case studies and applications.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

Once you complete this course you should be able to:

  1. Define and explain some major global environmental issues, their causes, and consequences.
  2. Critically evaluate the strengths and drawbacks of ways for dealing with these issues.
  3. Apply course concepts to real-world environmental problems (for example, in the media).
  4. Challenge your own assumptions regarding environmental issues, and understand/develop your personal values.
  5. Feel empowered with knowledge and ways to act to address global change issues.

Grading

  • Assignments 40%
  • Group Discussions 15%
  • Midterm exam 20%
  • Final exam 25%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Required and optional readings on individual topics are provided in Canvas.

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.