Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - EVSC 201W D100

Environmental Science in Practice (3)

Class Number: 3465

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Fri, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    EVSC 100.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A survey of environmental science practice that exposes students to what environmental scientists do, with guest lectures from environmental scientists and practitioners across contributing disciplines and workplaces. Coursework emphasizes literature research, analysis and synthesis along with scientific writing and communication skills. Writing.

COURSE DETAILS:

An introduction to what environmental scientists do in applied contexts, how environmental science concepts relate to applied skills, and how to communicate what environmental science is. The course will emphasize collaboration and communication skills through regular writing assignments and feedback, in which each student will develop and grapple with their own environmental science question. Students will engage with guest speakers working in diverse professional fields.   

 

Will there be tutorials/labs in the first week of class?

No

 

Are there any technical requirements the students should be aware of?

No

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Read scientific papers for key concepts, and identify the basis for the authors’ conclusions in the data and analysis
  • Synthesize environmental science information from a variety of sources and viewpoints
  • Formulate and ask relevant questions
  • Communicate a coherent synthesis of a topic in environmental science, both orally and in writing, demonstrating awareness of the audience
  • Collaborate effectively and efficiently with peers 

Grading

  • Guest speaker reports 10%
  • Engagement with Guest Speakers 10%
  • Peer Collaboration & Feedback 10%
  • Environmental Science Question Project 70%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All required reading materials will be provided on 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.