Conservation biology is, in it's simplest definition, the science of conserving biological diversity. In BIOL 328, students are encouraged to develop the scientific, ethical, and technical understanding of the means for protecting, maintaining and restoring the diversity of life on earth. The course is applied, service and field-oriented. We do "conservation". Students practice ‘life’ skills such as reading, writing, critical thinking, analyzing data, collaborating and communicating.
General Entomology Every Fall, students in BIOL 311 have an opportunity to gain an appreciation for the fascinating biology and incredible diversity of the insects. They learn to recognize and identify insect Orders and the local, commonly found insect families. They also gain an understanding of insect structure, function, ecology, behavior & integrated pest mgt. Additionally, they learn the skills, patience and fun of field biology and entomology. We love insects!
Environmental biology & conservation
In BIOL 180, we learn about issues related to environmental biology, conservation and management of natural resources. Decisions and actions related to conservation have significant consequences for the well-being of life on earth. By necessity, these decisions are made in the face of uncertainty and with imperfect information about the consequences of action. In this course, we gain basic ecological knowledge and the knowledge that exists on a variety of environmental issues. We also learn about and how to critically evaluate the threats to our environment and to formulate educated responses and actions for a more sustainable human occupied planet. Class includes weekly small-group discussion.
Honors Connecting Children to Nature, Field Zoology, Studies of Tropical Environments etc.
In Connecting Children to Nature students reflect on the current state of the environment and environmental education. We discuss the potential of early education and experience in nature as remedies for the wicked environmental problems the planet faces today as well as the socio-psychological outcomes resulting from an increasingly virtual and digital world. Students engage in a nature-based active learning environment indoors and out and in 2016 will participate in an international multidisciplinary on-line course network GlobalEE2016. Students also produce an independent team project with a community partner that will leave themselves and no child inside.