Zachary A. Musselman
Geography, University of Kentucky
When
considering the intertwined web of spatial and temporal relationships between
the environment and man, it is difficult not to consider the ecosphere as
one complete synergistic system. The complexity and disorder that often prevail
within ecologic and earth surface systems can be accommodated by research
undertaken with a geographical approach. In keeping with my interests in earth
surface system complexity, it is my intention to pursue an academic career
in the geosciences at the university level, where the opportunities to conduct geomorphic
research and teaching will provide me the best opportunity to productively
and beneficially utilize my skills. In my current role as physical geography
instructor, I view my teaching as an opportunity to challenge my students
to think critically about the integrated scientific issues at the foundation
of many environmental concerns facing them each and every day. Convincing
students that the decisions they make as consumers, producers, and as global
citizens influences them both personally and communally is not easy. Paramount
to my instruction, I teach the fundamental concepts of sound science grounded
in natural world processes. By using this approach, my goals are to enable
the student to make educated decisions and to consider the consequences of
their actions through understanding of environmental issues such as eustasy,
climate change, water resource management, watershed and ecosystem sustainability
and pollution cause and effects.
