ENV 717b () / 2023-2024
Tropical Field Ecology (Applications Due Sept 22)
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Credits: 3
Spring 2024: W, 10:30-11:50, Kroon 319 |
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SPRING 2024: Applications ENV 717 Tropical Field Ecology (Panama Field Trip)
APPLICATIONS DUE FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 22nd(by 5pm EST) for ENV 717 TROPICAL FIELD ECOLOGY (PANAMA FIELD TRIP)
Spring semester course, with mandatory field trip to Panama over Winter Break: 27 Dec 2023 – 7 Jan 2024.
Below is a course description for Tropical Field Ecology (ENV 717b) for the Spring 2024 semester. The course involves a mandatory field trip to Panama over winter break (dates: 27 Dec 2023 – 7 Jan 2024). In the spring semester, we will meet once per week (day/time TBD). Because the logistics and arrangements must be secured several months in advance, enrollment must be finalized by the end of September.
Note: Prior to the trip, you must secure a valid passport and eligibility to enter Panama. Non-US citizens may need to apply (well in advance) for a tourist visa.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE: If you are interested in taking the course, please read the description below and email Dr. Simon Queenborough (simon.queenborough@yale.edu) with the following information by 5PM, SEPTEMBER 22nd:
1. Name
2. Degree program and expected graduation date
3. Nationality (country that issued your passport)
4. Visa requirements for Panama (for non-US citizens, please check online for specific visa requirements for your country and include those requirements in your application)
5. List of previous relevant coursework
6. A brief explanation of why you want to take the course and how it would further your academic and career goals (200 words max)
Course expenses (airfare, local transportation, meals, lodging, fees, etc.) for YSE students will be covered by the YSE field trip fund. Students from outside of YSE and Yale College must seek alternative funding.
SELECTION PROCEDURE:For logistical and financial reasons, enrollment is limited. Top priority will be given to students for whom the course will clearly advance their academic/career goals (i.e., students planning to conduct ecological field research and/or focus on tropical ecosystems in their careers and who have not already had similar tropical field course experiences). Some previous coursework in ecology is required, but there are no specific prerequisites.
You must be available for the entire length of the field trip (no arriving late or leaving early for other personal/academic/work commitments). You must also commit to attend class in the Spring semester.
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ENV 717b, Tropical Field Ecology | 3 credits | enrollment capped at 10
This course is designed to give students firsthand knowledge of tropical biology and the issues surrounding conservation of biodiversity in the tropics, through a combination of seminar-style discussions and a mandatory12-day field trip over winter break. The emphasis is on active learning and developing independent research projects carried out during the field trip. Using a case-study approach, topics covered include patterns of biodiversity, tropical forest dynamics, reforestation, species interactions and coevolution, climate change impacts, ecosystem services, and human land use. Students also gain experience with study design, data collection methods, and statistical analysis.
This year’s field trip is to Panama, a country famous for its high biological, cultural, and economic diversity. We visit a variety of forest ecosystems and hear from local and international scientists about current research in the field. Students undertake two short research projects and also learn basic identification and natural history of tropical plant, bird, and insect species. Students should expect to spend a major part of each day outside in the natural tropical environment under adverse conditions. Enrollment is limited and course applications will be due in the Fall semester. Priority will be given to students planning to conduct field research in the tropics.
Limited to 15