SCI5324 - Ecology

SCI 5324 Ecology (3 semester hours) Ecology is the study of the interrelationships and patterns of organisms and their environments. Students will examine general ecological principles as related to productivity, population diversity, communities and ecosystem functions. Hands-on activities explore plant/insect interactions through traditional research and digital field sampling methods. This inquiry-based introductory course is aligned with instructional technology and ecology science teaching standards in the context of real-world constructivist practices. Participants will conduct student designed scientific investigations, including research question development, field collections, data analysis methods, and scientific writing. Students will prepare and submit a scientific journal manuscript. Includes a major field study component with daily and overnight off-campus field trips. Viewpoints examined include those of ecologists, entomologists, environmental scientists, and teachers. (2-3) T