B9065 - INSEGNARE IL CAMBIAMENTO CLIMATICO NELLE SCIENZE NATURALI

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course the student: - knows the processes of the global hydrological cycle and the mechanisms of interaction between atmosphere, hydrosphere and biosphere, both in natural conditions or affected by human activity; - knows basic principles of climate and of the history of climate during the geological record; - understands the interactions between human activity and pollution with atmosphere and hydrosphere and learns about the effects of climate and global change on world population and ecosystems - Knows the basic concepts of interactions between the environment and plants in relation to climate change - understands the processes correlated to pollutants on a global scale and the interactions with the atmosphere and plants, related to climate change and human activities.

Course contents

Course Syllabus

The course covers four distinct topics addressing various aspects of climate change. Given the strong interconnections between these topics, the material will not be presented as a couple of rigid, sequential modules; instead, the two instructors will alternate teaching sessions throughout the semester.

Topic 1 – Earth’s Climate: origin, evolutionary history, scientific foundations, and tools for quantifying contemporary climate change. Topic 1 introduces the processes of Earth's climate system, illustrating the scientific basis of climate change and distinguishing between natural processes and those driven by human activity. Students will acquire the tools to correctly analyze climate data, environmental indicators, and model outputs used by the scientific community to understand climate evolution.

Topic 2 – Impacts of climate change on ecosystems, the hydrological cycle, and hydrogeological instability phenomena. Topic 2 examines the effects of climate change on biodiversity, ecosystems, water resources, and the landscape. Students will analyze the impacts of extreme events and their environmental, economic, and social consequences, developing an integrated perspective on the interactions between the climate and both natural and human-altered systems.

Topic 3 – Educational strategies for teaching climate change. Topic 3 presents methodologies and tools for designing effective educational programs regarding climate change. Students will develop instructional design skills using inquiry-based approaches, experiential activities, real-world case study data, and innovative digital resources.

Topic 4 – Scientific communication and sustainability education. Topic 4 explores strategies for communicating climate science clearly and rigorously, addressing issues such as misinformation, climate change denial, and risk perception. Students will acquire the skills to promote sustainability education, gaining a deeper understanding of mitigation and adaptation strategies and their connection to the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.

Readings/Bibliography

Materials necessary for preparation and in-depth study of the topics will be provided. Lecture slides, uploaded in advance to the Virtuale platform, will be supplemented by scientific articles and informational documents designed to explore specific topics in greater depth; these will also serve as study materials for the exam. Reference texts will be recommended for further study where appropriate, even if not explicitly required for exam preparation.

Teaching methods

Lectures including also case study presentations and classroom discussions.

Assessment methods

Exam Format

The exam will be conducted orally and will cover the topics addressed in the course. The exam will take place in a single session attended by both professors forming the Examination Board.

Grading Criteria

Assessment of knowledge regarding topics presented in class and skills acquired consists of an oral exam lasting 20–30 minutes, featuring questions on the entire syllabus. The professors will determine a single final grade based on the performance across all questions. The oral exam is graded on a scale of 30 points, with the possibility of distinction (*cum laude*). During the oral exam, students will address topics covered in class (as well as in recommended study materials and course materials presented during lectures) and will be evaluated based on the following criteria: (i) knowledge, understanding, and depth of analysis of the topics; (ii) critical thinking and presentation skills; (iii) accuracy of technical-scientific language. Significant gaps in knowledge and/or the use of inappropriate language will result in a failing grade. The use of notes, electronic devices, or textbooks is not permitted during the exam, except for students with certified specific learning disorders (DSA). Students with specific learning disorders (DSA) or temporary/permanent disabilities are advised to contact the relevant University office (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/it) well in advance. That office will propose any necessary accommodations to the students; these proposals must be submitted to the professors for approval at least 15 days prior to the exam, so that the professors can assess their suitability in relation to the course's learning objectives.

Teaching tools

Oral presentation by the lecturer accompanied by slides. Lecture slides will be uploaded to Virtuale at least the day before the in-class lecture.

Office hours

See the website of Alessandro Gargini

See the website of Luigi Parrotta