BISC 11A: Biodiversity ConnectionsInstructor: Colleen Hitchcock Prerequisites: None 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 a firm grasp 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. This is course will introduce students to digital species identification tools and make use of iNaturalist (www.iNaturalist.org). iNaturalist is a worldwide citizen science 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 the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (www.gbif.org) and Encyclopedia of Life (www.eol.org). Given the online structure of this course and presumed varied geographic location of students, complementing our work with this citizen science experience will enable 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 science contributions they can make now and in the future. <b>Does not meet the requirements for the major in Biology.</b> Session: Extended Day: Online Time: Asynchronous Credit Hours: 4 Credits Course Format: 2008 Brandeis Graduation Requirement Fulfilled: SN Enrollment Limit: 10 Course Classification: Undergraduate Level Course Course Tuition: $3,100 Course Fees: None Open to High School Students: Yes |
