Deserts: Myths, Mystery, Magic
Deserts: Myths, Mystery, Magic From the Mojave to the Atacama to the Kalahari, Earth’s deserts are as fascinating as they are mysterious. In this course we will explore the unique biology of deserts, how humans interact (and have interacted in the past) with these ecosystems, and examine how deserts are portrayed in media and popular culture. Critically, we will evaluate the many myths that surround deserts (e.g. they are all lifeless, hot, best as solar farms) and dispel them with evidence from primary and secondary scientific sources.
A great introduction to Middlebury's liberal arts curriculum (FYSE). Coe was such a cool and amazing professor who's super down to earth and you can tell from her enthusiasm and passion that she really love teaching. You learn a lot of very important things in class that are valuable. Great professor, great class! 10/10 would recommend.
Despite not being an ES major, I enjoyed my time in Kirsten's class. If you choose to engage, the material can be very interesting and I definitely learned a lot. She also helps prepare you for future courses in the department as there is a large emphasis on proper research and paper structure (which she guides you through). There is a fair amount of reading required, but Kirsten is one of the coolest professors I've had, and I would recommend this course.
Despite not being an ES major, I enjoyed my time in Kirsten's class. If you choose to engage, the material can be very interesting and I definitely learned a lot. She also helps prepare you for future courses in the department as there is a large emphasis on proper research and paper structure (which she guides you through). There is …Read more
This course was overall engaging. Professor Coe is very passionate about Desert Ecology. She helps her students debunk all sorts of desert myths that have been normalized for generations. There are weekly readings and questions that she covers in class. She also encourages discussion throughout the lectures.
Prof. Coe is highly knowledgeable about environmental issues, specializing in desert ecology. The course material primarily centers on biology and ecology, but it also weaves elements of the humanities. Prof. Coe pays close attention to detail. The course itself is well-rounded and highly engaging.
Professor Coe was extremely engaging and accommodating. She clearly cares about the material, which was reflected in her teaching. I would highly recommend taking a class with Professor Coe if you have the opportunity.
Deserts is an amazing first-year seminar. Kirsten is one of my favorite professors. They are very passionate and knowledgeable about dryland systems. The class was not too difficult, and I felt that I learned a lot. Would highly recommend it.