Basic laboratory studies of interactions among living organisms and their environment including biogeochemical cycling, trophic structures, sustainability, and human impacts on the environment.

 

Rationale for adding to list:

The laboratory course will supplement general education ecology courses by student application of abstract theory to practical experience in collecting, processing and interpreting data generated by the class. Student interaction in research and discovery is recognized as an integral part of learning scientific material.

 

1.  Analyze information and conduct experiments using the scientific method.

2.  Demonstrate critical thinking about concepts of ecology and integrate that knowledge into practical applications for daily life.

3.  Describe the interrelationships among producers, consumers and decomposers and their environment.

4.  Describe human use and impacts on the environment.

5.  Describe environmental and resource problems and the possible solutions to these problems.

 

I. Introduction

A. Laboratory Safety and Procedures

B. Metric System and Measurements

II. Scientific Method

A. Design of Experiments

B. Interpreting Data

C. Writing of Lab Reports

III. Biogeochemical Cycling

A. Soil Nutrients

B. Inorganic and Organic Matter

C. Photosynthesis

D. Cellular Respiration

IV. Trophic Structures

A. Identification and Function of Decomposers

B. Identification and Function of Producers

C. Identification and Function of Consumers

V. Human Resource Use and Impacts

A. Solid Waste

B. Aquatic Pollution

C. Growth of Populations and Resource Use

VI. Environmental Solutions

A. Recycling

B. Restoration and Remediation

C. Conservation and Sustainability