Critical Topics in Ecology and Conservation (451-0-1)

Instructors

Gordon Smith

Meeting Info

Technological Institute M128: 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:
1. Relate fundamental theory and concepts in ecology to real-world problems in our
changing world
2. Evaluate published evidence of the challenges currently being faced by diverse species
and examine the social impacts of these challenges
3. 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)

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

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: REASON: Pre-registration is not allowed for this class. Please try again during regular registration.
Add Consent: Department Consent Required