Hawaii - Geology of Energy
Course Description:
Hawaii poses an interesting study case for the interaction between the natural energy resources understood from the geologic perspective and the patterns of use by the human inhabitants. Experiencing these connections first hand will serve as a well constrained "natural laboratory" for the class. The details of the energy resources are easily available which will make integration of the stated course goals of this class easy to carry out. The temperate nature of the climate during J-Term will help greatly in carrying out field-based assignments.
Students that take this course will explore the geological environments of Hawaii in order to understand the patterns of how our society uses energy and where potential energy sources reside in the landscape and how they could help remediate risks of a fossil fuel-based energy crisis. Students will learn the basics of observation and calculation in a week-long PLU campus based portion, field time will place students in the "natural laboratory" on the Big Island of Hawaii and the island of Oahu.
Course Highlights:
In this course we will visit energy production facilities and the surrounding geologic wonders including active volcanoes, historic lava flows, beaches and urban environments. We will also observe energy usage behaviors of Hawaiian's and visitors to Hawaii and will observe and calculate energy density in the landscape. This course will culminate in the representation of group projects related to energy in Hawaii.
Course Objectives:
- To understand the current distribution of energy usage in Hawaii
- To know the geologic setting of and processes that affect Hawaii
- To evaluate alternative energy technologies and resources
- To synthesize and propose a path of change in energy usage for the state
Course Credit:
GEOS 109 - Geology of Energy (4 credits). Department credit. Satisfies Natural Science GUR.
Program Fee:
$3,500. Includes airfare, lodging, three on-site meals per day except on Oahu, and vehicle rentals.
These estimated additional costs indicated below are intended to assist students and parents in budgeting for those additional living and discretionary expenses not included in the program fee. Actual expenses may vary according to student interests, individual needs, and spending habits:
- Pre-travel evaluation at the PLU Health Center = $45 *All students are required to visit either the PLU Health Center or a personal healthcare provider to achieve the proper medical clearance. Be aware that other medical providers may charge additional fees that may result in a higher cost than the PLU Health Center.
- Immunizations = $0 to several hundred dollars **Vaccination needs vary on destination and individual medical history, and may be costly.
- Airline baggage fees = approximately $25 for each checked bag
- Books, supplies, course materials = varies
- Cell phone and cell usage = varies
- Personal Expenses = approximately $600. Check with your faculty leader for an accurate estimate for your destination.
Application Deadline:
April 13, 2012. A non-refundable deposit of $50.00 is required with the application. A $250 non-refundable program payment to confirm participation in the course is due within 10 days of notification of acceptance. Maximum 18 students.