BISC 11A: Biodiversity ConnectionsInstructor: Colleen Hitchcock Prerequisites: Does not meet the requirements for the major in Biology. Course Description: This online course explores the evolution, extinction, and conservation of biodiversity for students majoring in disciplines beyond the sciences. Students leaving this course will have knowledge of the scientific method, the benefits and limitations of scientific conclusions and the interplay between science and society. In the online environment we will explore topics through a variety of formats to promote both instructor lead and peer-facilitated learning. It is impossible to explore biodiversity without promoting bioliteracy of the flora and fauna local to students (aka knowledge of the natural world). This course introduces students to digital species identification tools and makes use of iNaturalist (www.iNaturalist.org) to make observations of biodiversity near you. iNaturalist is a worldwide platform that enables users to build naturalist skills and connect with a local community of naturalists while at the same time providing worldwide data on species distribution to international scientific repositories. Given the online structure of this course and presumed varied geographic location of students, complementing our work with experiential learning through iNaturalist enables students to have a place-based experience and develop lifelong naturalist skills. In addition, it will offer insights to non-majors on the type of scientific contributions they can make now and in the future. Session: Extended Day: Online Time: Asynchronous Credit Hours: 4 Credits Course Format: 10-week Asynchronous Online for Summer 2023 Brandeis Graduation Requirement Fulfilled: SN Enrollment Limit: 10 students Course Classification: Undergraduate Level Course Course Tuition: $3,490 Course Fees: None Open to High School Students: Yes |
