Great Issues in Science:

Biodiversity, Conservation, and Development

HSP 123    CRN 2308

Tuesdays 1:10 – 3:00pm  Putnam 253

Thursdays 1:10 – 5:00pm Kresge 173

Dr. Dean McCurdy

Description

The notion of biodiversity encompasses the unique attributes of all living things. This concept goes beyond simply counting and naming organisms (although that’s a good place to start), and includes the role each species plays in the environment, and even the amount of genetic diversity within populations of organisms. At present, the earth’s biodiversity is declining at an unprecedented rate, and we have only begun to explore the consequences of this loss. As difficult as it can be to define and measure biodiversity, it is perhaps even more challenging to comprehend human attitudes toward nature. In this course, students will work together to address how biodiversity relates to development at several scales - from harnessing biodiversity for global economic development, to the development of our individual attitudes toward the environment. Through extensive readings, writing assignments, discussions, field trips, and research projects, students will use an interdisciplinary approach to investigate topics that include: conservation of endangered species, containment of invasive species, the role of renewable energy sources in the world economy, prospects for biodiversity as a tool for economic growth, and the psychology surrounding our sense of place in nature. Research projects will include studies on species-at-risk and approaches used to study biodiversity.

Important Field Trip Information

Numerous field trips will be taken as part of this course. The major trip currently being planned is a mandatory adventure to coastal Nova Scotia, Canada over the Labor-Day weekend (likely from Thursday, August 31 until Monday, September 4). The trip will include opportunities for whale watching, observation of migratory shorebirds, exploration of mudflats and along rocky shorelines, meetings with scientists and government officials who study biodiversity/conservation, and observation/tracking of endangered turtles. This trip will also include three nights of camping in the ‘wilds’ of Nova Scotia (tents, sleeping bags, and misc. camping supplies will be provided as needed). There will be a fee charged to help cover travel costs for this trip – Not to exceed $600.00 per person.  An information meeting on the trip will be held after pre-registration is complete (additional details on the trip itinerary will be provided at that time). A passport is also required for travel to Canada.