Courses: Session I
BISC 111 TB (Tropical Island Biology) Introductory Organismal Biology with Laboratory Martina Königer, Assistant Professor of Biological Sciences Are you interested in learning about organismal biology by studying the biology of a remote and unspoiled Caribbean Island? This exciting course consists of lectures and labs at Wellesley College for the first two weeks of the session, followed by two weeks (July 1 - 11) of lectures and labs at the Central Caribbean Marine Institute on Little Cayman, Cayman Islands: http://www.reefresearch.org You will be learning about the importance of islands in speciation; the adaptations that allow species to successfully thrive in these tropical environments; the biology of coral reefs, mangrove swamps, and dry forests and the threats that these ecosystems face. The lab component on the island will include an introduction to the fauna and flora of the island and the surrounding reefs, as well as group projects conducted in the field and at the station. Field excursions will include visits to the diverse habitats on the island and snorkeling trips. You will be required to bring a lab top computer that has Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and wireless internet capabilities. You will also need to bring snorkeling equipment (snorkel, mask, fins, booties and if possible a shorty wetsuit). To apply please submit the BISC 111 Application Form on-line at http://www.wellesley.edu/SummerSchool/bisc111appl.html or send it to Martina Königer, Department of Biological Sciences, Wellesley College, Wellesley, MA 02481 by April 1, 2008. We will contact you for an interview that week and tell you by April 7th about acceptance into the course. You will need to commit to the course by April 14, 2008. Introduction to the central questions, concepts, and methods of experimental analysis in selected areas of organismal biology with a focus on tropical island biology. Topics include: evolution, ecology, and plant and animal structure and physiology. Lectures and discussions during the first two weeks will prepare students for the field laboratory and lectures taught at the Central Caribbean Marine Institute in Little Cayman. Laboratory work will be carried out primarily in the field and includes introductions to the flora and fauna of the island and the coral reefs, as well as group projects. Prerequisite: Fulfillment of the basic skills component of the
Quantitative Reasoning requirement. Distribution: Natural and Physical
Science. Fulfills the Quantitative Reasoning overlay course requirement. Location: Green Hall 130 |
