Environmental Ecology

DESCRIPTION:
Fundamentals of the science of ecology, including an introduction to life and the physical environment, adaptations of organisms and evolution, population structure and regulation, species interactions, community ecology, biodiversity, ecosystems and ecological applications.

RATIONALE: 
Environmental Ecology is a comprehensive approach to the science of ecology, from the basic principles of ecology to the current state of the field and its applications. It aims to give students a better understanding of ecology at the levels of the organism, the population, the community and the ecosystem. Through theory and selected examples and case studies students will develop an understanding of ecological interactions and of the impact of humans on species and ecosystems. Knowledge of ecology can provide insights and solutions to important contemporary environmental issues such as the decline of biodiversity and ecosystem management. This course provides an excellent background for environmental studies majors but also for every student from other disciplines who wishes to understand connections in nature.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
As a result of taking this course, the student should be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of core concepts and principles of ecology on life and the physical environment, ecosystem structure and function, adaptations of organisms and evolution, population structure and regulation, species interactions, community ecology, biodiversity and ecological applications.
2. Explain the scientific method and how it applies to the study of ecology, discussing specific case studies.
3. Evaluate the role of humans as agents of change in the natural environment and explain how ecological knowledge and applications can be used for studying and addressing contemporary environmental issues.
4. Develop skills for using basic methods in ecology, including the ability to use appropriate laboratory and field equipment and to acquire, process and evaluate data.

METHOD OFTEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the learning and teaching strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
• Class lectures, interactive learning (class discussions, group work), video presentations, and practical problems solved in class.
• Exercises and primary source documents are assigned as homework and are discussed and reviewed in class.
• Laboratory and field activities (including practical work and laboratory reports).
• Use of textbook companion site, CD-ROMs, Blackboard online interactive tools and online resources.
• Office hours: students are encouraged to make full use of the office hours of their instructor, where they can ask questions, see their exam paper, and/or go over lecture/lab material.
• Use of a Blackboard site, where instructors post lecture notes, assignment instructions, timely announcements, as well as additional resources.