Introduction to Ecology

Designed to give non-science majors the opportunity to learn about the interactions between the physical and biological components of the environment. The lecture will provide a broad introduction to the organismal, population, community, and ecosystem levels of ecological interaction. Instructional methods include readings, lecture/discussion, in-class applications, field observations, and field research. The lab portion will provide students with practical experience in ecological methods and the design, conduct, and analysis of ecological studies. Lab exercises are designed to correspond with major lecture topics. Exercises include lab and field studies. Student should come prepared to be outside for most labs. (Prerequisites: high school Biology with lab or BIOL 100C with a grade of C or higher; high school Chemistry with lab or CHEM 100C with a grade of C or higher; high school Algebra I or MATH 092C with a grade of C or higher)