BIOL 2410 - Field Ecology Lab

This course provides an introduction to the theory and methodology of field ecology.  Students will develop skills in experimental design, sampling techniques, data analysis, and communication of study findings.  We will explore various data-collection techniques, and investigate appropriate sampling methods, used to study local ecosystems and their inhabitants (both plant and animal).  Field trips introduce students to the rich natural history of the area, and allow students to apply the basic approaches of ecological field study to better understand ecological patterns and processes.

Credits: 2

General Education Requirement: None
Prerequisites:
BIOL 1010 General Biology I

Co-requisites:
BIOL 2400 Field Ecology

Minimum Student Competencies
Upon completion of BIOL 2410 Field Ecology Lab, the student will:

1. Describe appropriate field sampling techniques for a variety of research questions in different ecosystems and habitats.
2. Collect data using appropriate field sampling techniques.
3. Analyze field data and evaluate ecological hypotheses.
4. Develop sampling skills to monitor plant and animal populations.
5. Critique experimental design components in media news articles and scientific research articles.
6. Interpret the rich natural history of the local outdoor environment.