Honors College 391AH - Honors Discovery Seminars

This seminar is a required course for Commonwealth Honors College students where students participate in a topical seminar-style course designed by its instructor. While the subject matter of each section is different, advanced knowledge of the topic is not required. While the subject matter of each section is different, the requirements for each section are the same. Individual titles and descriptions of HONORS 391AH sections can be found on the Commonwealth Honors College website.

Blue Gold and World Water Wars

The course will provide an overview of the emerging crisis of water scarcity and conflicts throughout the earth system. Using case studies throughout the world, students will learn about nature, distribution, institutions, and conflicts related to water resources. Each class will involve a mix of video discussion, brainstorming, short lecture, and exercises. Students will be able to share ideas and interact with others through a course website and in classrooms. The course is of interdisciplinary interest and provides a unique opportunity to learn and interact with students from a variety of majors. Grading will be based on weekly blogs that students complete on the topic learned each week and a final presentation. The presentation will be a particular case selected by the student. The main objective of the course is to provide a scientific basis for understanding the water crisis and strategies to handle current and emerging water issues.