BI 1007 ENVIRONMENTAL ECOLOGY

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. 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.