EESC 200 Prairie Ecology

Topics include formation and extent of the Great Plains, Grassland ecosystems, Ecological succession, biodiversity, Native and non-Native species, current status of the Great Plains, Pant-insect interactions and anthropogenic induced changes. We study the scientific process, scientific reasoning and evaluate evidence, using the Great Plains as our focus. Students will be expected to engage in discussions and research outside of the classroom, in addition to in-class activities. There are 2 days of mandatory field trips which are required in order to pass the course. The Great Plain grasslands of North America are one of the largest ecosystems in North America and also some of the most altered environments on earth.

Credits

3

Student Learning Outcomes

1. Demonstrate understanding of the nature of the scientific process.
2. Evaluate the quality of data and draw conclusions from data.
3. Recognize and evaluate the elements of effective experimental design.
4. Be able to relate the content and process of science to their daily lives and to issues in society.
5. Evaluate the credibility of sources of scientific information.