Critical Topics in Ecology and Conservation (339-0-1)

Instructors

Gordon Smith

Meeting Info

University Hall 101: Tues, Thurs 9:30AM - 10:50AM

Overview of class

Anthropogenic changes to the world's ecosystems continue to have large, and often context dependent, effects on the abundance, distribution and interactions of species. In this course we will explore major conservation issues of today and examine the ecological processes underlying these issues. This course will include reading and writing about conservation issues for both scientific and general audiences, as well as discussions of primary literature and popular media around conservation. Class activities will include lectures, small and large group discussions, and other opportunities for active learning, as well as guest lectures from experts in the different conservation fields.

After participating in this course, you will be able to:

- Relate fundamental theory and concepts in ecology to real-world problems in our changing world

- Evaluate published evidence of the challenges currently being faced by diverse species and examine the social impacts of these challenges

- Explain the larger context and likely outcomes of these challenges to scientific audiences and the public

Registration Requirements

BIOL_SCI 203 (Genetics and Evolution) OR ENVI 202 (Health of the Biosphere) OR permission of instructor

Teaching Method

Lecture by instructor, discussion of primary literature led by the students, and guest lectures by experts.

Evaluation Method

Participation (20% of final grade)
Perspectives paper on a topic of your choice (35% of final grade, total)
Peer review (10% of final grade)
Popular media piece on conservation issues (35% of final grade, total)

Class Materials (Required)

Primary literature and review articles, as well as popular media as assigned (provided on Canvas). No required textbook

Class Materials (Suggested)

Optional Textbook
Sodhi and Ehrlich. 2010. Conservation Biology for All. Textbook (free pdf)

Class Attributes

Prerequisites apply, see description

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite: Students must have completed BIOL_SCI 203-0, or BIOL_SCI 241-0, or BIOL_SCI 341-0, or BIOL_SCI 342-0, or ENVR_SCI 202-0 to register for this course.