Course Information
| Credits: | 4 hrs. |
| Instructor: | Lorna Harder |
| Schedule: | Lecture: TR 2-3:15 p.m. L1 Lab A: Wed. 8-9:50 a.m. C10 Lab B: Wed. 2-3:50 p.m. C10 |
| Office: | Kropf #101 |
| Phone: | x8321 |
| E-mail: | lornah@hesston.edu |
Description
Environmental Biology is an introductory science course, exploring fundamental ecological principles that provide a foundation for the understanding of our natural world, and the environmental issues that affect it. The course emphasizes the process of science as it relates to a biological description of the natural world; and as it relates to the problem-solving needs associated with environmental issues.
Objectives
At the end of this course you as a student should be able to do the following:
- Demonstrate skills in observation and scientific analysis;
- Demonstrate a working knowledge of fundamental scientific arguments relating to ecological principles;
- Demonstrate the ability to link ecological principles to environmental issues; and
- Demonstrate the ability, as an individual and as a member of a community, to engage in informed decision-making with regard to environmental issues.
Classroom Methods
Lecture, classroom exercises, reading quizzes and discussion.
Texts
- Molles, Manual E Jr. 2005. Ecology Concepts and Application. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill
- Environmental Biology Syllabus and Lab Manual
Assignments and Evaluation
- Text and classroom. You are expected to master material presented in the text, lectures, classroom discussion and activities and to integrate this material into assignments and exams.
- Classroom Activities, Quizzes and Exams. Six (6) exams and a final comprehensive exam are scheduled. In addition, quizzes will be introduces regularly into the classroom environment. Tests will include objective and essay questions, and incorporate lecture, classroom exercises, laboratory and text materials. Exams and quizzes will cover material that is assigned to you and for which you are responsible. Note that most but not necessarily all material will be covered in class.
- Critical Reviews. Six (6) critical reviews will be due throughout the semester, one for each section of the course. The reviews will be due at the beginning of class on the assigned date. No late reviews will be accepted.
- Evaluation. Evaluation will be based upon your performance in classroom activities and on quizzes, exams, laboratory exercises, general participation and attendance. Grades will be assigned based on the following percentages.
90 - 100% |
A |
80 - 89% |
B |
65 - 79% |
C |
50 - 64% |
D |
00 - 49% |
NC |
LABORATORY INFORMATION
TOPICS:
- The Scientific Method
- Project FeederWatch
- Ecological Competition
- Epidemiology
- Climatology
- Estimating population size
- Seed germination exophysiology
- Determining the LD50
- Species Diversity
- Population Dynamics
- Is your Campus Wildlife Friendly?
- Maxwell Wildlife Refuge Field Trip
Laboratory Activities
Lab exercises are designed to provide you with hands-on experiences in field and laboratory settings. Field experiments often present challenges due to the presence of many naturally occurring variables. However the field also offers continuing opportunities to observe and record events that regularly occur in the natural world, and that are difficult to duplicate in the lab. The laboratory setting provides opportunities to perform experiments under artificial conditions where variables can be more carefully controlled. Based upon field observations and testing, a single variable or several variables representative of field conditions can be used to test hypotheses in the lab.
Laboratory Reports
Many lab exercises are conducted over a two-week period. During the first week, data will be collected in the field. During the second week, data will be combined and analyzed. Laboratory reports will be due at the conclusion of the period used for data analysis.
Requirements
- Attendance in class is important! Daily records will be maintained. Regardless of whether an absence is excused or unexcused, it means that you miss the classroom community experience. In the event of an absence, you are responsible for the material covered.
- Preparation for and participation in class and classroom exercises are important. Be prepared. Read assigned material prior to class and arrive on time and actively participate in classroom activities.
- Attendance in lab is required. Absence from up to two laboratory periods can be made up. You will need to make arrangements with your instructor for the make ups. Any laboratory missed and not made up will result in the lowering of your course grade by one letter grade.
- Classroom activities. Opportunities to earn points will be regularly presented in class via discussion questions, quizzes and associated activities. Note that these points cannot be made up if a class is missed.
Other Items
Academic Integrity
The instructor in this course upholds the HC Academic Integrity Policy as described in the 2004-2005 Course Catalog. Substantial difference between classroom exercises, homework and exams are subject to thorough review.
Special Needs
Any students in this course who have a disability that may prevent them from fully demonstrating their abilities should contact the instructor personally as soon as possible to discuss accommodations necessary to ensure full participation and facilitate equal education opportunity.
Disclaimer
The course syllabus is subject to change in the event of extenuating circumstances and with the approval of the instructor.
Mission Statement
Hesston College educates and nurtures each student within a Christ-centered community, integrating thought, life and faith for service to others in the church and the world.
Hesston College Outcomes
Hesston College strives to help
each student become a competent, critical and integrative thinker,
a socially responsible person and a person of Biblical understanding
and faith.