Course Number and Title:
ENV 240 Environmental Field Sampling
Prerequisites
Prerequisite: CET 100 and CHM 110
Course Credits and Hours
3 credit(s)
2 lecture hours/week
4 lab hours/week
0 offsite lab hours
Course Description
This course introduces students to environmental field sampling and analysis for the purposes of assessing site conditions and regulatory compliance. Students examine the principles and techniques used to collect soil, groundwater, surface water, air, and biological samples in accordance with industry standards and best practices. Emphasis is placed on proper sampling technique, sample preservation, chain-of-custody record, quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC), health and safety protocols, and regulatory compliance. Students gain experience designing sampling plans and using standard environmental field sampling equipment.
Additional Materials
None
Core Course Performance Objectives (CCPOs)
1. Apply the regulatory and scientific basis guiding environmental field sampling and analysis. (CCC 4, 5; PGC 5, 7)
2. Describe the basis for, and employ, industry standard safety protocols for environmental field sampling and laboratory analysis. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5, 7)
3. Document field sampling procedures and laboratory analysis techniques in accordance with industry standards and protocols. (CCC 1, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7)
4. Demonstrate proper field sampling techniques, including the collection of soil, groundwater, surface water, air, and biological samples. (CCC 1, 2, 3, 4; PGC 1, 2, 3, 5, 7)
5. Develop an environmental field sampling plan. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 6; PGC 1, 3, 4, 5, 7)
6. Interpret laboratory analysis results and draw appropriate conclusions under scenarios related to environmental site assessment and/or regulatory compliance. (CCC 1, 2, 4, 5, 6; PGC 1, 4, 5, 7)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Measurable Performance Objectives (MPOs)
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Apply the regulatory and scientific basis guiding environmental field sampling and analysis.
- Explain the purpose of environmental field sampling, as it relates to site assessment and regulatory compliance.
- Identify laws, regulations, and guidance governing environmental field sampling.
- Explain the scientific rationale and regulatory implications for representative, reproducible, and defensible sampling.
- Describe the basis for, and employ, industry-standard safety protocols for environmental field sampling and laboratory analysis.
- Explain the components of a Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
- Explain the components of a Health and Safety Plan.
- Identify potential field and laboratory safety hazards.
- Utilize appropriate field and laboratory safety procedures.
- Explain the appropriate use and limitations of personal protective equipment.
- Document field sampling procedures and laboratory analysis techniques in accordance with industry standards and protocols.
- Explain the purpose of industry-specified field sampling procedures and analysis techniques.
- Identify information and documentation required to demonstrate adherence to representative, reproducible, and defensible field sampling and analysis techniques.
- Explain the legal and technical significance of “chain-of-custody,” and complete a chain-of-custody form for environmental field samples.
- Demonstrate proper field sampling techniques, including the collection of soil, groundwater, surface water, air, and biological samples.
- Demonstrate the proper use of industry-standard equipment for collecting environmental field samples.
- Explain the purpose of environmental field sampling equipment calibration.
- Demonstrate proper calibration of environmental field sampling equipment.
- Explain the importance of quality assurance/quality control practices for both sampling and analysis.
- Develop an environmental field sampling plan.
- Develop a field sampling and analysis plan to achieve data objectives.
- Explain different sample types, such as grab, composite, and multi-increment samples.
- Select appropriate sampling locations, equipment, and analytical parameters to achieve data objectives.
- Estimate costs for field sampling and analysis, and perform cost/benefit analysis for the purposes of adhering to a designated project budget.
- Interpret laboratory analysis results and draw appropriate conclusions under scenarios related to environmental site assessment and/or regulatory compliance.
- Evaluate laboratory analysis results respective to environmental decision-making parameters, such as published regulatory screening levels.
- Employ data reduction techniques.
- Effectively organize and present laboratory analysis results.
- Explain how environmental sample data is used for decision-making pertaining to human and environmental health.
Evaluation Criteria/Policies
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90-100 |
= |
A |
| 80-89 |
= |
B |
| 70-79 |
= |
C |
| 0-69 |
= |
F |
Students should refer to the
Catalog/Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Final Course Grade
Calculated using the following weighted average
Evaluation Measure | Percentage of final grade |
Summative Assessments |
| 30% |
- 2 Tests (equally weighted)
| 30% |
| 20% |
Formative Assessments |
- The course will contain various formative assessments including but not limited to: (all are equally weighted)
- Homework Assignments
- Quizzes
| 20% |
TOTAL | 100% |
Program Graduate Competencies (PGCs are the competencies every graduate will develop specific to his or her major)
1. Apply technical knowledge, skills, and engineering principles in various civil and environmental engineering applications.
2. Conduct field and laboratory testing using industry-standard procedures.
3. Select and apply appropriate materials, technologies, and best practices for civil and environmental engineering projects.
4. Utilize engineering software, visual communication tools, and technical documentation to support diverse civil and environmental engineering activities.
5. Interpret and apply relevant industry regulations and standards to civil and environmental engineering applications.
6. Pursue industry-recognized certifications related to civil and environmental engineering technology.
7. Demonstrate professionalism and ethical responsibility while prioritizing safety, quality, timeliness, and continuous improvement in civil and environmental engineering practices.
Core Curriculum Competencies (CCCs are the competencies every graduate will develop)
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
Students in Need of Accommodations Due to a Disability
We value all individuals and provide an inclusive environment that fosters equity and student success. The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. The College's policy on accommodations for persons with disabilities can be found in the College's Guide to Requesting Academic Accommodations and/or Auxiliary Aids Students may also access the Guide and contact information for Disabilities Support Counselors through the Student Resources web page under Disabilities Support Services, or visit the campus Advising Center.