Psychology & MST Classes

PSYC 1110: General Psychology

3 credit hours, 3 class hours

The study of behavior. Includes perception, motivation, learning, personality, social processes, and physiological processes. [NMCCNS PSYC 1110: General Education Area IV]

 

PSYC 1180: Science and Pseudoscience

3 credit hours, 3 class hours

This course examines methods for determining whether given claims are science or pseudoscience. Several controversial topics will be explored, with emphasis on coming to objective decisions about such claims. Topics include logical fallacies, the Scientific Method, creationism, global warming and climate change, hidden codes in the Bible, Relativity theory, 9/11 Truth conspiracy claims, Dark Matter, UFO sightings, Perpetual Motion Devices, Quantum Mechanics, Quack medical claims and more.

 

PSYC 1190: Human Factors in Science & Engineering

3 credit hours, 3 class hours

This course explores how human capabilities and limitations influence decision making and performance and how scientists and engineers can use knowledge of these factors to design. We will focus on how cognitive processes and biases in perception, attention, memory and problem solving influence performance. Examplesof “human error” and ways in which error can be averted will be studied. Comparisons will be made between human and artificial intelligence.

PSYC 2110: Social Psychology

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110

Study of the manner by which the behavior of one individual is influenced by the behavior and other characteristics of others. Includes social perception and cognition, attitudes, prejudice, interpersonal attraction, cooperation, group behavior, and aggression.

 

PSYC 2285: Experimental Psychology

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110 Corequisite: PSYC 2285L

Basic concepts and research methodology in the study of behavior; emphasis on experimental design, control, and methods in Experimental Psychology.

 

PSYC 2285L: Experimental Psychology Laboratory

1 credit hour, 2 lab hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110 Corequisite: PSYC 2285

A lab usage fee is charged. Laboratory methods and experiments investigating behavior, cognitive processes and neuropsychology.

 

PSYC 2310: Drugs and Behavior

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110

An overview of how drugs affect brain and behavior, with an emphasis on self-administered drugs, addiction and treatment.

PSY 301: Sensation and Perception

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 2285 passed with a Cor better Corequisite: PSY 301L

An experimental and theoretical study of the special senses (vision, hearing, smell, taste and touch), including the structure, function and disorders of sensory and perceptual systems.

 

PSY 301L: Sensation and Perception Lab

1 credit hour, 2 lab hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 2285 Corequisite: PSY 301

A lab usage fee is charged Laboratory methods and experiments in Sensation and Perception.

 

PSY 305: Cognitive Psychology

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 2285 passed with a C- or better Corequisite: PSY 305L

A study of research findings, major issues and theories of mental processes. Topics include attention, learning, memory, imagery, concept formation, language and its development, thinking, problem solving and decision making.

 

PSY 305L: Cognitive Psychology Lab

1 credit hour, 2 lab hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 2285 passed with a C- or better Corequisite: PSY 305

A lab usage fee is charged Laboratory methods and experiments investigating cognitive processes.

 

PSY 309: Behavioral Neuroscience

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisites: PSYC 2285 passed with a C- or better; BIOL 2110, Corequisite: PSY 309L and BIOL 2610

Study of the neural and other physiological bases of behavior. Functional neuroanatomy of sensory and motor systems, motivation and drives, learning and emotion.

 

PSY 309L: Behavioral Neuroscience Lab

1 credit hour, 2 lab hours; Prerequisites: PSYC 2285 passed with a C- or better; BIOL 2110Corequisite: PSY 309, BIOL 2610

A lab usage fee is charged Laboratory includes neuroanatomy and neurophysiology, either in vivo and/or in computer simulations.

 

PSY 314: Psychotherapeutics

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisites: PSYC 2310, BIOL 2110, 2610

A study of approaches to treatment of disorders of the nervous system, from the function and dysfunction of the nervous system, to in depth explanations of the development and application of pharmacological, gene and cell replacement approaches to treatment of disease.

 

PSY 320: Psychology of Language

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisites: PSYC 1110

Language may be the most uniquely human behavior. This class explores the evolutionary origins of language in animal communication abilities; how the brain makes sense of language and plans speech; child development of language understanding and production; and social aspects of human behavior in conversation.

 

PSY 323: Psychology of Child and Adolescent Development

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110

The development of human behavior from conception to adolescence. Includes cognitive, social, behavioral, and physical development.

 

PSY 323L: Psychology of Child and Adolescent Development Lab

1 credit hour, 2 class hours; Corequisite: PSY 323 and consent of instructor

This course is intended to help students understand, through firsthand observation, theories and ideas taught in Child and Adolescent Development (PSY 323). The class will focus on the biological, perceptual, cognitive, behavioral, linguistic and socialemotional development of preschoolers at the NMT Children’s Center.

 

PSY 324: Psychology of Adult Development and Aging

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110

The development of human behavior from early adulthood to old age. Cognitive, social, behavioral, emotional, and physical development. Life tasks, careers, physical and emotional health, leisure, dying, and death.

 

PSY 330: Abnormal Psychology

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110

A psychobiological investigation of the cause, presentation, diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of behavioral issues.

 

PSY 350: Psychobiology of Sex

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110 or consent of instructor and advisor

Sexual reproduction in a broad evolutionary context. Topics include sexual and asexual reproduction, sexual selection, the endocrinology of mammalian reproduction, development of the reproductive system and sexually differentiated behaviors, sex differences in the brain, and human behavioral sex differences.

 

PSY 362: Animal Behavior

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisites: PSYC 1110 or consent of instructor and advisor

An overview of the study of animal behavior, focusing on presentation, adaptive advantage and mechanisms of specific behaviors. (Same as BIOL 362)

 

PSY 362L*: Animal Behavior Lab

1 credit hour, 2 lab hours; Prerequisites: PSYC 2285 passed with a C- or better Corequisite: PSY 362L

Observation and quantification of animal behavior in natural habitat and the laboratory. Methods of investigating behavioral mechanisms. Requires off-campus activities.

 

PSY 389: Special Topics in Psychology

Credit and class hours to be arranged

 

PSY 391: Directed Study

Class and credit hours to be arranged; Prerequisite: Upper-division standing in psychology

Supervised individual work in psychology. May be repeated for more than one semester’s work.

PSY 400: History of Psychology

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: Nine hours in psychology

This course traces central questions and concepts of psychology from their origins in classical philosophy and medicine to modern times. Interactions between historical developments and psychological research are emphasized.

 

PSY 405: Assessments and Measurement

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisites/Co-requisites: PSYC 1110 or EDUC 340, or permission of instructor Educational and psychological tests and measurement.

Evaluation and data-driven curriculum revision. Field observation assignments that take students to public school classrooms. (Cross-listed with EDUC 405/505)

 

PSY 409: Cell and Molecular Neuroscience

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110 or BIOL 2110

A study of the molecular and cellular basis of the nervous system, covering fundamentals of cell biology, principles of neuronal signaling and neuronal circuits, and cell and molecular approaches to the investigation, diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the nervous system. Shares lecture with BIOL 509 and BIOT 509 with additional expectations for graduate credit. (Same as BIOL 409. )

 

PSY 410: Neurology

3 credit hours, 3 class hours; Prerequisite: PSYC 1110 or BIOL 2110

An examination of the non-cognitive functions of the nervous system (e.g., autonomic function, biological rhythms, and sleep), and the etiology, diagnosis and treatment of selected neurological disorders such as epilepsy, migraine and traumatic brain injury.

 

PSY 472: Senior Seminar

1 credit hour, 1 class hours each semester; Prerequisite: Upper-division standing or consent of instructor and advisor Review

Discussion of current research in psychology.

EDUC 340

Concepts in Education

2 credits

2 class hours

Brief survey of the history (especially modern history) of education together with the professional requirements and structure of educational systems. Understanding standards‐based education and how to address the needs of culturally diverse school populations.

 

EDUC 341

Matching Teaching Strategies to Student Learning

3 credits

2.5 class hours, 1.5 lab hours

How students learn and develop; including cognitive, social, emotional and physical development as it relates to students individual needs and strengths. How to teach in a classroom of diverse learners; including differentiating instruction, modifying for special needs students, and motivating student learning. Lab hours will be spent observing and working in public school classrooms.

 

EDUC 343

Classroom Management and Discipline

3 credits

2 class hours, 3 lab hours

Prerequisites: Permission of the Alternative Licensure Program Coordinator, enrollment in Alternative Licensure Program.

Principles of classroom management and discipline, student and teacher rights and responsibilities. Lab involves study, observation and participation in the public schools. Includes interviewing and evaluation.

EDUC 401

Assessing and Teaching Reading in Content Areas

3 credits

3 class hours

Prerequisites: Permission of the Alternative Licensure Program Coordinator, enrollment in Alternative Licensure Program.

Concepts, methods and materials for the teaching of reading in the context of the secondary curriculum. Topics include measurement of reading achievement and ability, reading training, motivation for reading, and reading disabilities.

 

EDUC 403

Methods and Practices of Secondary School Teaching

4 credits

3 class hours, 3 lab hours

Prerequisites: eight (8) credit hours of upper‐division education courses, permission of the Alternative Licensure Program Coordinator, enrollment in Alternative Licensure Program.

A study of essential teaching principles including: instructional planning and implementation; assessment of student learning, appropriate feedback, and subsequent lesson modification; effective questioning to encourage student participation and to promote individual thinking and problem solving. The implementation of a variety of instructional strategies to meet the needs of all learners. The use of various resource materials and technology. Lab hours will be spent observing and working in public school classrooms.

 

EDUC 411

Directed Teaching

3 credits

Prerequisites: Senior or graduate standing; permission of the Alternative Licensure Program Coordinator, enrollment in the Alternative Licensure Program, education minor added, EDUC 403, and consent of a public school principal. Lab fee may be assessed for teaching outside of Socorro.

Practice teaching in a local secondary school. Students will experience all aspects of teaching. It involves a commitment of 2 hours per day, five days a week, in the classroom. Expect to spend an equal number of hours in preparation. Student teachers will also meet one hour per week with the Education Instructor.

ST 501

Special Topics

These courses are offered on a request basis:

• Charles Darwin, “The Origin of Species”, and Evolution, Vertebrate Paleontology,
• Earth Environments Through Time,
• Environmental Case Histories,
• Great Ideas in Natural History, Critical Thinking Skills

ST 502D

Archaeology for Teachers

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 525/525D or departmental waiver

A general introduction to the study of the past through material remains and the relationship of archaeology to the sciences. Four major topics are covered: archaeological field and lab method and theory; human evolution; the basic structure of world prehistory; archaeological careers and application of archaeology in the public sphere. Assignments include papers, archaeological analysis problems and classroom lesson plans.

 

ST 503D

Ancestor’s Tale

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D and ST 525/525D or departmental waiver

Evolution is a theory, a process and a narrative of biological and geological science that elucidates the history of life and its amazing diversity and abundance on Earth. The Ancestor’s Tale is a course that takes its name from the book (used as the text), written by noted evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins, and is at once metaphor and narrative of life’s journey through almost 4 billion years. The journey of these evolutionary pilgrims begins now, in the present, with our own species Homo sapiens, and moves ever deeper back through the evolutionary branchings of organisms in time. The course investigates the unity of all life on Earth through all of time.

 

ST 505D

Human Evolution

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D or departmental waiver

We live on a planet populated by several billion members of a single species, Homo sapiens, different from all other species by a unique set of characters and behaviors not seen in any other animal species. This course is concerned with the origin and evolution of who we are and how we got here. The course will trace the origin of the great group to which we belong, the Primates, as well as our distant and not too distant cousins. We will review those traits that make us Primates, along with such interesting animals as the lemurs of Madagascar, the Old World Monkeys, and the Great Apes of Africa.

 

ST 506D

Dinosaurs and Their World

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D and ST 525/525D; or departmental waiver

This course means to do what its title advertises. Together, we will go on an adventure to look at dinosaurs and their world, a world at once with similarities to our own, and many differences. We will explore a world about which we know a great deal, but also a world that still has many more unanswered questions. We will take a journey back through so much time that the reality of time’s distance is reduced to numbers without a sense of the actual enormity of the journey. And yet even that journey is but a small fraction of a still greater timescale of our planet and the universe.

 

ST 508D

Worms, Bugs, and Shells

2 credits

Prerequisite: ST 523/523D or departmental waiver

This course provides an introduction to the major groups of living invertebrate animals. The vast majority of living organisms are animals and fewer than 5% of these are animals with backbones; the majority of the rest are invertebrates, the “worms, bugs and shells” of this course. This course will acquaint students with the main ideas about the classification, anatomy, evolutionary relationships, ecology, behavior, geographical distribution and other aspects of the natural history of the major groups of living invertebrates. Special emphasis will be placed on species found in New Mexico and the Southwest. Technical terminology will be kept to a minimum and the primary focus will be on big ideas.

 

ST 509D

Human Genetics

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D and ST550/550BD, or departmental waiver

Human genetics covers the basic principles of transmission and molecular genetics and the application of genetics to human health and reproduction. Lecture topics include forensic DNA analysis, genetic testing for diseases, cancer predisposition, in vitro fertilization, preimplantation genetics, evolutionary medicine, and epigenetics. Bioethical issues raised by the development of new genetic tests, including whole‐genome sequencing are considered. Participants are required to develop educational modules that can be used in their classes.

 

ST 510D

Vertebrate Zoology: An Introduction to Animals with Backbones

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D or departmental waiver

Vertebrate Zoology provides an introduction to the major groups of living vertebrate animals: fishes, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Vertebrates comprise a small fraction of all the animals that now exist on Earth, but are the most familiar and a ract the most interest, in part because we ourselves are vertebrates. Vertebrates are diverse and abundant, although an increasing number of species are endangered. This course includes the classification, anatomy, evolutionary relationships, ecology, behavior, geographical distribution and other aspects of the natural history of the world’s living vertebrates. Special emphasis will be placed on species found in New Mexico and issues of threatened and endangered species, habitat destruction and protection.

 

ST 517

Environmental Studies

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course is a study of the interrelationships of organisms with their physical and chemical environment including the biological interactions among populations, communities, ecosystems, and pollutants.

 

ST 518D

Water as a Resource

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D and ST 524/524D: or departmental waiver

This asynchronous web course covers one of our most precious resources in New Mexico and beyond. This course covers interesting and timely topics such as drinking water quality and supplies, water‐generated energy, water conservation, desalination, ocean currents, weather patterns, water reservoirs, the hydrologic cycle, climate change, and drought, in the same flexible online format as Renewable Energy ST577d. Students view course material in weekly modules, participate in online discussions, complete two projects, and view virtual field trips. The web format allows you to view the course material whenever you want to during that module week. The scope of this course encompasses both local and global water issues and politics plus the biology and chemistry of water systems and supplies. The goal is to give a good understanding of the way water systems work and how they are connected to the other Earth systems, and to prepare students to teach water resources in their classrooms.

 

ST 519

Modern Genetics

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 523/523D and ST 550/550BD and ST 509 (recommended); or departmental waiver

This lab course is an introduction to techniques used to study Mendelian and molecular genetics, including forensic DNA.

 

ST 523D

Survey of Biology

1 credit

A survey of life functions at the cellular level including the structure of organic molecules, membrane structure and function, energy metabolism, cellular reproduction, and gene action. Also includes an introduction to evolution and phylogenetic survey of the kingdoms of life.

 

ST 524D

Survey of Chemistry

1 credit

This course is an introduction to basic chemical terminology and nomenclature, modern atomic and molecular theory, periodicities of chemical behavior, and the physical characteristics and isotopic stability of the elements. The student will learn how to read and write properly balanced chemical equations, make meaningful predictions based on stoichiometric relationships, identify and quantify the participants in electron and proton transfer reactions and establish a foundation for pursuing more advanced studies in the chemical, physical, material, life, earth and environmental sciences.

 

ST 525

Survey of Geology

1 credit

This course covers the fundamentals of geosciences, including field‐based training in how and why geology “works.” Mandatory field trips will introduce participants to the essentials of the study of Earth materials, with classroom sessions discussing the origin of the Earth, its landforms, and materials.

 

ST 526

Survey of Physics

1 credit

Explore Newton’s three Laws of Motion in this laboratory course. Hands‐on, class time experiments are supplemented with assigned readings. This course is not mathematically intensive.

 

ST 529/529D

Research and Documentation

2 credits

Prerequisites: None

This course covers the various kinds of research (both primary and secondary) and documentation, particularly in the fields of science, including gathering and analyzing data, writing (literature reviews, reports, articles, bibliographies), and documenting correctly.

 

ST 530/530D

Technical Communication for Teachers

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 529/529D or departmental waiver

The theory and practice of writing for technology and science: lab reports, proposals, abstracts, and scientific articles. Emphasis will be on audience awareness, editing, writing, and documenting information.

 

ST 536D

Fundamentals of Information Technology

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 556 or departmental waiver

This is an introductory course aimed at presenting state‐of‐the art information on technology and technological issues in a broad rather than detailed manner. Major issues affecting all of us and specifically the Information Technology Professionals will be discussed. Although this course is not intended to make us all experts in Information Technology (IT) it will help us understand why IT works the way it does, and give us the groundwork to be more useful IT users and partners. This course will give the student the basic understanding of IT which will help them be more comfortable with the technology around us and use it more efficiently. The student will also have a basic proficiency in an operating system and basic software applications (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets, presentation graphics, and databases).

ST 537

Supercomputer Challenge

1 credit

Prerequisite: departmental waiver

Teachers will learn how to sponsor a Supercomputing Challenge team and how to help students complete an appropriate computational science project in keeping with the Challenge mission statement. The computational project incorporates four components, Project Management, Structured Programming and Design, Mathematical and Agent Based Modeling, and Internet Research and Resources This is a twelve month project and terminates with the final competition at LANL in May.

 

ST 540

Rockin’ Around New Mexico

1 credit

Prerequisite: ST 525 or departmental waiver

Explore local geology, including volcanic rocks and hazards, seismic hazards, mountain‐building processes, and mineral resources. Two days of the three‐day course will be spent in the field, following an introductory day comprising geologic exercises and lecture presentations. Each year, a different New Mexico community hosts this course, co‐sponsored by the New Mexico Bureau of Geology.

 

ST 541

Geology and Mining Engineering for Teachers I

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 525 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course is a study of the principles and technology of mineral occurrence, extraction, and refining. Field trips complement lectures and laboratory experiments. Emphasis is on New Mexico base metal deposits.

 

ST 542D

Timescapes: Momentous, World Altering Events

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 525 or departmental waiver

This course is designed for science majors interested in discovering the great events occurring over the last 4.5 billion years of Earth history. Churchill said, “History is just one thing after another,” but the history of planet Earth can be viewed as having been shaped by momentous, world‐altering events, millions of years apart. These will form the basis of this course. The course will meet distribution requirements for science majors.

 

ST 543D

Forensic Geology

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 525 or departmental waiver

Forensic Geology is a discipline with an ever‐expanding role in criminology, environment concerns, and even the war against global terror – geologists have made claims they can tell the locations of terrorist leaders by studying the rocks visible behind them in videotapes. This discipline, a specialty of the geosciences, collects and studies earth materials and their associations, including rocks, sediments, soils, water, and any man‐made products that they contain, with attention toward their significance in regulatory and legal areas. The margins of Forensic Geology overlap with other sciences, including biology, chemistry, physics, anthropology, and archeology.

 

ST 547

Field Techniques in Geology for Teachers

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 525 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This field‐based course shows how geologic mapping and maps are prepared, with in‐the‐field exercises showing participants how geologic information is collected and plotted on geologic maps. Students will perform rock identification, review faulting and folding of rocks, and the methods used to record geologic data. Field work will be in the Socorro area, with both in‐class and in‐the‐field assignments.

 

ST 548

Geology of the Southwest—National Parks and Natural Resources

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 525 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This is a field‐based course that involves camping, limited hiking, and visits to national parks and mine sites in the western U.S. Students will camp in areas of spectacular geologic settings. In‐the‐field assignments will comprise the basis for grading. the regional and local geologic settings of national parks and mineral deposits are reviewed, and the clash between minerals utilization and natural resources occurrence are discussed.

 

ST 550AD

Mathematics for Teachers

1 credit

This course is a basic survey of the principles of contemporary mathematics. The course will emphasize the algebra of sets and numbers, exponentials and logarithms, complex numbers, vectors and matrices, and applications in science for each.

 

ST 550BD

Mathematics for Teachers

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST 550AD or departmental waiver

This course is a basic survey of the principles of contemporary mathematics. The course will emphasize the algebra of sets and numbers, exponentials and logarithms, complex numbers, vectors and matrices, and applications in science for each.

 

ST 550

Mathematics for Teachers

2 credits

This course is a basic survey of the principles of contemporary mathematics. The course will emphasize the algebra of sets and numbers, exponentials and logarithms, complex numbers, vectors and matrices, and applications in science for each.

 

ST 551AD

Concepts in Mathematics for Teachers

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST 550/550BD or departmental waiver

The development of some of the great ideas in Mathematics through history, from the concept of number to abstract mathematics, is discussed. Students develop class projects using the covered concepts and

 

ST 551BD

Concepts in Mathematics for Teachers

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST 551AD or departmental waiver

The development of some of the great ideas in Mathematics through history, from the concept of number to abstract mathematics, is discussed. Students develop class projects using the covered concepts and history in their own classes.

 

ST 552AD

Calculus on a Computer

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST 550/550BD or departmental waiver

Students learn to use computer software to do single variable calculus. Applications and geometric understanding are emphasized. No previous calculus is required. Student versions of the software are available for purchase.

 

ST 552BD

Calculus on a Computer

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST 552AD or departmental waiver

Students learn to use computer software to do single variable calculus. Applications and geometric understanding are emphasized. No previous calculus is required. Student versions of the software are available for purchase.

ST 553

Problem Solving and Recreational Mathematics

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 550/550BD or departmental waiver

This course covers problem solving techniques, logic and mathematical arguments, logic puzzles, word problems in algebra, games of strategy for two players, geometrical dissections, tiling puzzles, and basic combinatorics.

 

ST 554

Mathematical Modeling

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

Students learn the process of going from a real world problem to a mathematical model and back to an interpretation of results. Students will work in small groups on a wide variety of applications. Projects suitable for classroom use will be developed.

ST 556

Mobile Computing and Science Teaching

1 credit

This is a course about hot to teach science and math with a mobile computer ‐ a tablet ‐ and what can happen when the teacher and students all have mobile computers. Topics covered include connecting to a projector or large‐ screen display, evaluating additional hardware, evaluating teaching apps, sharing files, and automated grading. Students make daily presentations to the class.

 

ST 557

Fractals and Chaos

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 550/550BD or departmental waiver

This course covers the development of the basic geometry of fractals, using both deterministic and random methods, the mathematical ideas behind chaos, the connections between the ideas of chaos and fractals, and applications.

 

ST 558/558D

Probability and Statistics

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 550/550BD or departmental waiver

This course covers techniques for the visual presentation of numerical data; descriptive statistics; introduction of sampling and statistical inference, illustrated by examples from a variety of fields.

 

ST 560

Space Science: Hazardous Asteroids

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course introduces concepts relevant to understanding small bodies in the Solar System and their effect on the near‐Earth space environment. The emphasis is on processes that can threaten life on Earth, specifically, a potential asteroid collision. The goal is to expose the student to some of the basic principles of space science (gravity, kinetic energy, astronomical measurement) while using hazardous asteroids as a fun and non‐intimidating context for refreshing simple math skills. The format will include lectures, laboratory exercises, and hands‐on use of an optical telescope.

 

ST 561

Weather and Climate

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

In this course, students will study the physical and chemical processes that are important for understanding weather and climate: thermodynamics and the flow of energy in the atmosphere, cloud formation and precipitation, solar and thermal radiation, the greenhouse effect, and the photochemistry of ozone.

 

ST 562

Radio Astronomy for Teachers

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course is an introduction to observational radio astronomy. It covers some general concepts of astronomy including electromagnetic radiation, motions of astronomical bodies, coordinate systems, as well as small radio telescope operation and data collection. The format will include lectures, field trips, hands on use of optical and radio telescopes, independent team research, documentation, and research presentations. Students must be willing to explore independently and work in teams. Class hours vary during the week to accommodate observing sessions.

 

ST 563

Optical Astronomy for Teachers

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course exposes the student to the techniques of optical observational astronomy. The emphasis is on correct use of digital cameras and analysis of digital images. In addition, the course covers basic aspects of finding celestial objects in the night sky. Students must be willing to explore independently and work in teams. Class hours vary during the week to accommodate observing sessions.

 

ST 564/564D

Great Concepts in Physics

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course covers the concepts of physics from the Greeks to the present, the triumphs and questionable philosophical assumptions of the scientific method, revolutions of relativity and quantum theory. Extensive mathematical background and laboratory work are not required.

 

ST 565

Physics of Aviation

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 5550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course is a basic survey of aerodynamics with emphasis on the principles of physics that apply to flight. There is a limited use of mathematics, but nothing beyond basic algebra. The course uses the method of discovery learning to introduce the principles of physics to flight. The course is a combination of lecture, in‐class exercises and take‐home activities. There is one short in‐class examination and a required in class presentation.

 

ST 567

Mission to Mars

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

The STARBASE® La Luz Academy Mars Missions Flight, for fifth graders, involves students in planning and preparing for a simulated manned mission to Mars. Teachers guide their students through a series of Base Operations (including creating a mission patch, writing a saga, learning Mars facts, and designing a life support system) in the classroom and then bring students to the culminating Link‐Up Day activity in the spring. The goal of the Mars Missions Flight is to increase student interest and motivation for studying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Participating teachers can earn graduate credit by submitting the following items: complete lesson plans developed for implementing each of the Base Operation activities in their classroom; a list of resources used in the classroom to accomplish the required Base Operations; and a lessons‐learned report based on their participation in this activity.

 

ST 568

AFRL La Luz Summer Teacher Institute

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This is a hands‐on, inquiry‐based course that focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) activities from the AFRL La Luz Academy. Students will earn one credit hour by completing a specified team STEM project, using a systems engineering approach, during the weeklong course. Opportunities to collaborate with scientists and engineers, as well as tours of AFRL facilities, will be incorporated into the course, as available. An additional credit hour is available the following summer for those students who develop and implement STEM lesson plans as Teacher Institute Fellows during the school year and present these lesson plans at the AFRL La Luz Academy Teacher Institute Symposium.

 

ST 569

Optics for Teachers

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

This course considers the characteristics and behavior of light. Drawings and a few algebraic equations provide complementary means – concrete and abstract – for predicting the position, orientation, size and type of images created in a variety of optical instruments and natural circumstances. Participants receive an Introductory Optics System kit, and individual projects and class activities insure familiarity and the ability to adapt the kit for a range of classroom levels. The study of light introduces various “action at a distance” phenomena. While this course affirms that many observed phenomena require a considerably more sophisticated model for optics, a solid grounding in geometric optics is sufficient for the design of state of the art instruments.

 

ST 570/570D

Electricity

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST 526 and ST 550/550BD; or departmental waiver

Electricity and Magnetism are behind almost all modern technologies. This first course in electricity covers what you would need to teach electricity and circuits for grades 6‐12. We will cover forces on charges, electric fields, voltage, current, power and electrical circuits. You will be sent a lab kit so that you can demonstrate static electric effects and build and test simple circuits. This course will introduce new mathematics (vectors) to describe electric fields and you will learn to calculate fields of multiple charges. It will also review the trigonometry and fractions that were introduced in ST550, and apply them to electric forces and circuit analysis.

ST 571/571D

Electromagnetism and Light

1 credit

Prerequisites: ST 570 or departmental waiver

This follow‐on course to Electricity (ST570) introduces magnetic fields and forces and how they interact with electric currents. Dipole moment and magnetic strength are also introduced. The vector cross product is used to calculate the direction of magnetic forces. The mathematics of sine waves is reviewed and then applied to understanding wavelength, frequency, refraction, interference and diffraction. Your lab kit will allow you to demonstrate image formation by lenses and diffraction of a laser, to build a simple motor, and to build a galvanometer. This course should lead to increased confidence in physics, applied math, and basic engineering skills.

 

ST 572D

New Mexico Science and Scientists I, II, III

2 credits each

New Mexico is unique in the U.S. in its concentration of scientists and in the range of science being done here. Much of the research is on the cutting edge, be it deep‐space radio astronomy, New World archeology, or the newest computer chips. New Mexico scientists are at work in universities, colleges, museums, institutes, national laboratories, the state and federal government, regional entities such as the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy, and in mining and other private industries. The course will introduce students to many of these scientists in an informal, conversational setting. This course is designed for both science and non‐science majors.

• Section I: Earth, Mars, and Meteors
• Section II: Biology and Evolution
• Section III: Energy, Environment and Materials

 

ST 577

Renewable Energy (extensive use of field trips)

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 524/524D and ST 526; or departmental waiver

This is a survey course that explores the state of energy use, production, economics and environmental issues by field trips, lectures and readings. Topics explored in this course include sources of energy, impacts of energy production and use, methods of production and delivery as well as environmental, economic and political issues. Field trips will allow students to see firsthand alternative energy facilities, sites where alternative energy is in use, traditional mines and power plants. Students will meet with personnel at these facilities. A goal of the course is to enable teachers to present information in their classroom from the perspective of real experience.

 

ST 577D

Renewable Energy (web based, no field trips)

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 524/524D and ST 526; or departmental waiver

Energy and the energy crisis and their association with non‐renewable sources are covered and renewable sources and new technologies are then covered for a contrasting perspective. Weekly course modules explain fossil fuel origins, uses, and abuses, plus the renewable energy sources wind, solar, biomass, hydroelectric, ocean/tidal, and geothermal plus virtual field trips. The scope of this course encompasses both local and global energy issues and politics plus new technology and innovations. The goal is to give a good understanding of the alternatives to fossil fuel use and ways to reuse and conserve resources. Taking this course will prepare the student to teach energy generation and conservation in his or her own classroom.

 

ST 578D

The Chemistry of Natural Products

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 524/524D or departmental waiver

This course begins with an overview of organic compounds; examining each of the major functional groups. A number of different classes of naturally derived organic compounds are then considered. These include the sugars, alkaloids (opiates, nicotine, etc.), essential oils, taxanes and cannabinoids. Sulfur based compounds are also discussed. In particular, we are interested in understanding the natural sources for these compounds and methods of isolation. Additionally, we would like to understand their physiological effects, mode of action and metabolism.

 

ST 579D

Concepts in Chemistry: Development of Atomic Theory

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 524/524D or departmental waiver

This course examines the classic experiments in chemistry and physics that underpin our current understanding of atomic structure. We begin by examining the classification of matter, the fundamental laws of chemical combination and the development of a workable atomic theory. Then, we consider the discovery and characterization of the subatomic particles; the electron, proton and neutron. The structure of the atom is next discussed. We look at the experimental evidence for quantum physics and how it can be used to understand the electronic structure of the atom. Finally, simple bonding theories are presented.

 

ST 580D

Introduction to Biochemistry

2 credits

Prerequisites: ST 524/524D or departmental waiver

This course will consider the structure and function of the four basic classes of biomolecules. These are proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and nucleic acids. A discussion of enzyme function, membrane construction, metabolism and photosynthesis will also be included. Finally, the role of nucleic acids in protein synthesis will be considered. Special topics to be taken up are vitamins, neurotransmitters and viruses.

 

ST 581

Directed Study

Credit hours to be arranged

Study under the guidance of a member of the graduate faculty. In general, subject matter will supplement that available in other graduate course offerings.

 

ST 590

Independent Study

3 credits

Independent Study provides the student with an opportunity to engage in a plan of study under the supervision of NMT Faculty to (a) explore in more depth or detail an area to which the student has been introduced in previous courses or in the field of science‐based education and (b) contribute to the knowledge content and/or the application of the knowledge content of the selected area. An IS is intended to be a project initiated by the student and designed in conjunction with his/her advisory committee.

ST 591

Thesis (master’s program)

6 credits

A Thesis is similar to an Independent Study (ST 590) except that it normally involves research over an extended period of time and follows the guidelines of the Academic Advisor’s or Research Advisor’s Department. In general, the requirements for a Master of Science for Teachers student completing a thesis are no different from the requirements for any other graduate student completing a thesis within the same department.