SGC Three Semester Review

Jake Mullin's Three Semester Review

Due Date: December 9, 2024

Reflection on My Experience

Over the last three semesters, my experience as a Science & Global Change (SGC) Scholar has been a journey of learning about the Science of Nature, the Nature of Science, and how these concepts intersect with the pressing challenges of global climate change. Through coursework, colloquia, excursions, and personal reflection, I have gained a deeper understanding of the scientific process and its applications in addressing global change. This program has provided me with a lens through which I can better evaluate scientific evidence and its implications for the future. Below, I reflect on how SGC has shaped my perspective, enhanced my learning, and challenged my beliefs.

News Related Item

One news-related item that struck my attention during the last three semesters was the historic heat waves across the United States and Europe in the summer of 2023. Reports highlighted record-breaking temperatures, with cities like Phoenix experiencing weeks of temperatures over 110°F, and devastating effects on infrastructure, agriculture, and public health. This story caught my attention because it illustrated how climate change exacerbates extreme weather events. My SGC experience enhanced my understanding of this issue significantly. For example, in our colloquium discussions, we explored the relationship between global temperature rises and the frequency of extreme weather patterns. Through these discussions, I learned about how specific weather events can be linked to climate change. Without Scholars, I might have viewed these heat waves as isolated incidents rather than manifestations of broader, systemic global changes.

Misunderstanding of the Scientific Method

During the last three semesters, I encountered a significant misunderstanding of the scientific method in social media discussions surrounding climate change. One common claim I noticed was that "scientists are unsure about climate change because their models keep changing." This misapplication of scientific information stems from a misunderstanding of how science works, specifically, that revising models and theories as new evidence emerges is a strength, not a weakness, of the scientific method. My SGC experience enabled me to identify and challenge this misconception. In the program, we frequently discussed the iterative nature of science and how theories are refined over time as part of the natural progression of knowledge. This understanding allowed me to engage in conversations about the topic and explain that evolving models reflect the growing precision of our knowledge, not uncertainty about climate change itself.

Supporting Courses

One SGC-required course that significantly contributed to my understanding of climate change was AOSC200: Weather and Climate. In this class, I learned about weather patterns, the greenhouse effect, and the role of atmospheric dynamics in shaping climate. A key takeaway was how long-term climate patterns differ from short-term weather phenomena, which clarified my understanding of why extreme events like hurricanes and heat waves are becoming more intense. This insight complemented what we discussed in colloquium about the need to communicate climate science effectively to a public often confused by the distinction between weather and climate. Another supporting course that contributed to my learning was PHYS270: General Physics: Waves, Optics, Relativity and Modern Physics. Although not directly focused on climate, this course reinforced my understanding of the scientific process and problem-solving skills. Learning about energy systems, conservation principles, and the nature of light gave me a stronger grasp of renewable energy technologies, such as wind turbines and solar panels, which are critical in addressing global climate change. These technical skills and foundational knowledge enhanced my ability to critically evaluate proposed solutions to climate challenges.

Interaction with Fellow SGC Scholars

While the living-learning community aspect of SGC did not significantly impact my learning, I appreciated the collaborative nature of the program. My roommates, who were computer science majors, did not share much overlap with my studies as an electrical engineer, and we rarely discussed SGC or climate change in depth. However, interacting with peers during colloquium sessions and group activities was valuable. For example, during the Visions of the Future project and the Freshwater Fisheries presentation last semester, I worked with students from different majors who brought unique perspectives to the discussion. Their insights broadened my understanding of how climate change affects various sectors, from urban planning to the broader ecosystem.

Contributing to SGC

I don’t feel that I have made a significant contribution to SGC as a whole, but I have tried to make the most of the opportunities provided. During excursions and field trips, I approached each activity with curiosity and a genuine desire to learn. For instance, during the visit to a SERC I was active during the different activities and trying to understand the importance of SERC and the activities they had us doing, which deepened my understanding of places and facilities like SERC. While I may not have been a standout contributor, I consistently engaged with the program’s objectives to the best of my ability.

Challenging Beliefs and Opinions

One of the most profound impacts of SGC on my thinking has been its ability to challenge my pre-existing beliefs about climate change. Before joining the program, I viewed climate change as a nearly insurmountable problem, something that was happening but beyond our control. Through SGC, I learned that while climate change is a complex and daunting issue, it is not unpreventable. The program exposed me to potential solutions, such as carbon capture technology and sustainable urban design, which challenged my pessimistic outlook. I now understand that mitigating climate change requires a combination of innovation, policy, and individual action, and that meaningful progress is possible.

Conclusion

My experience as a Science & Global Change Scholar has fundamentally shaped my understanding of climate change and the role of science in addressing global challenges. From deepening my comprehension of extreme weather events to identifying misconceptions about the scientific method, SGC has equipped me with the tools to critically analyze information and contribute to discussions about the future. Although I haven’t made significant contributions to the program, I have gained a great deal from the courses, activities, and interactions it offered. Above all, SGC has instilled in me a sense of hope and responsibility, qualities that I will carry forward as I navigate my academic and professional journey in a rapidly changing world.