PLSCI 5500

PLSCI 5500

Course information provided by the Courses of Study 2024-2025.

Students will study the managed decomposition of organic matter. Through discussion and hands on activities, we will explore the basics of the composting process, nutrient cycling and recycling as well as methods used to teach these concepts to a wide variety of audiences. The main aim of this subject is for students to understand the underlying biology and chemistry of the composting process and the resulting environmental, health and economic benefits of recycling organic residuals in real world situations. Emphasis will be placed on the applied aspects of composting, empowering students to become leaders in the community on compost education. Students will also be expected to apply the lessons learned through volunteer work each week and participate in community events where composing education will occur.

When Offered Spring.

Permission Note Enrollment limited to: juniors, seniors, and graduate students.

Outcomes
  • Describe the basic and applied aspects of the decomposition of organic matter.
  • Explain scientific principles of composting processes, community systems, and communication.
  • Devise approaches to improve efforts to divert waste leading to sustainable communities.

View Enrollment Information

Syllabi: none
  •   Regular Academic Session.  Choose one lecture and one field studies.

  • 2 Credits Sat/Unsat

  •  2371 PLSCI 5500   LEC 001

    • R
    • Jan 21 - May 6, 2025
    • Michaelides, A

      Thies, J

  • Instruction Mode: In Person
    Application required. Application deadline is Monday, January 27, 2025. Contact Janice Thies (jet25) for details on how to apply. First class will be held on Thursday, February 13, 2025 at Cornell Cooperative Extension office in downtown Ithaca, 615 Willow Ave.

  •  2372 PLSCI 5500   FLD 801

    • TBA
    • Jan 21 - May 6, 2025
    • Michaelides, A

      Thies, J

  • Instruction Mode: In Person
    Trips to Tompkins County Recycling and Solid Waste facility, 160 Commercial Ave, Ithaca and to Cornell Compost site, access off Stevenson Rd., Ithaca.

  • 11713 PLSCI 5500   FLD 802

    • T TBA
    • Jan 21 - May 6, 2025
    • Staff

  • Instruction Mode: In Person
    Tour of the Cornell Compost Facility Stevenson Rd, Ithaca (service road entrance across from Dodge Rd).