Catalog Course Search Details

 Department:    ENVC

 Course #:    211

 Credits:    4

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    4.5

 CIP:    150594

 EPC:    615

 Course Description  

General sampling concepts and population estimation. Methods in ecological sampling of mammals, birds, amphibians, vascular reptiles, fish, and plants. TFW program procedures for ambient monitoring. Introduction to ecological software.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: MATH& 146. Field trips required. Strongly recommended: familiarity with computers and spreadsheets.

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 33

Lab: 22

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0

Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Vocational Preparatory Required for ATA degree  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

1. Design and execute ecological sampling and conduct initial data analysis based on natural resource samples from water quality to plants and animals.
2. Conduct field sampling of stream habitats using the TFW ambient monitoring protocol.
3. Apply the correct sampling technique and design within a biotic system.
4. Select and field-test a new method.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

1. Information Literacy

Definition: Recognizing when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
1.1 Determine the extent of information needed.

2. Critical Thinking

Definition: The ability to think critically about the nature of knowledge within a discipline and about the ways in which that knowledge is constructed and validated and to be sensitive to the ways these processes often vary among disciplines.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
2.2 Analyze issues and develop questions within a discipline.
2.3 Identify, interpret, and evaluate pertinent data and previous experience to reach conclusions.

8. Mathematical Reasoning

Definition: Understanding and applying concepts of mathematics and logical reasoning in a variety of contexts, both academic and non-academic.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
8.2 Correctly apply logical reasoning and mathematical principles to solve problems.
8.3 Interpret information and reasoning expressed mathematically (for example in spreadsheets, diagrams, charts, formulas, etc.).

9. Scientific Literacy

Definition: Understanding scientific principles, and analyzing and applying scientific information in a variety of contexts.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
9.2 Demonstrate their understanding of the principles of scientific methods, analysis, and reasoning.

10. Technology

Definition: Understanding the role of technology in society and using technology appropriately and effectively.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
10.2 Demonstrate an understanding of legal, ethical, and environmental issues in the use and misuse of technology.

Course Contents

1. General sampling concepts and population estimation:
2. Ambient monitoring.
3. Water quality sampling.
4. Vegetation analysis.
5. Bird sampling.
6. Fish sampling.
7. Mammal sampling.
8. Amphibian and reptile sampling.