Bruce James
Bruce James received a BA in chemistry and environmental studies from Williams, followed by MS and PhD degrees in soil science from UVM. During these studies, he developed a keen interest in interdisciplinary learning related to the course topic that he used in his teaching at the University of Maryland, College Park, for 29 years. Now retired, he continues to thrive on new learning and ideas related to sustainability, environmental science, soils, environmental history, and agriculture.
Poking the Climate Beast: Science & Ethics (Winter Term 2025)
Participant Testimonials:
A truly excellent course on a vital topic for our time. Bruce was thorough, well prepared, and taught with professional grace and patience.
Bruce did a good job with the Hy- Flex format and incorporating both in-person and Zoomers into the class. We have technical glitches one class, but Bruce didn’t get flustered and got the class back on track, even adding some extra time to the remaining three subsequent classes to incorporate the disrupted material.
Bread and Soil in Ancient Rome (Spring Term 2024)
Participant Testimonials:
Very well prepared--nicely organized, presented and easily comprehended.
A nice feature was that in the beginning of each class, Bruce asked relevant non-threatening questions to find out if the students got the essence of the previous class.
The Global Water Paradox: Scarcity Amid Abundance (Winter Term 2024)
Participant Testimonials:
The flow of the course was well thought out. Starting with the science of water helped lay the foundation to understanding the rest of the class.
The reading were supportive. Bruce also sent links to current news articles which were so relevant
The Roots of Civilization in Soil and Water (Fall Term 2023)
Participant Testimonials:
The discussions were well managed and instructive. Everyone got the opportunity to share.
Bruce connected comments to his own and allowed folks to have as long a say as they wanted.
The Global Water Paradox: Scarcity Amid Abundance (Winter Term 2022)
Participant Testimonials:
Lots of energy and engagement, plus a wry north country style.
Great course and great presentation by Bruce.