Fall 2017 - REM 611 G100

Population and Community Ecology (5)

Class Number: 6353

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 5 – Dec 4, 2017: Tue, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

    Sep 5 – Dec 4, 2017: Thu, 12:30–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Instructor:

    Anne Salomon
    anne_salomon@sfu.ca
    1 778 782-8739
    Office: TASC1-8237
    Office Hours: By appointment

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A review of population, community, and ecosystem ecology; implications of these areas for methods of resource management and environmental assessment. Equivalent Courses: MRM611

COURSE DETAILS:

This course explores the scientific foundations of applied population and community ecology and highlights contemporary conservation strategies designed to balance the needs of people and nature. We will explore topics such as metapopulation theory and reserve design, alternative states and resilience, and ecosystem function and ecosystem-based management. Course readings will include textbook chapters to provide students with the foundations of applied ecology, and cutting-edge, peer-reviewed literature to expose students to the latest innovations in the field of conservation science. Students will also have the opportunity to apply field and modelling skills to real-world conservation issues. Half and full day field trips to local conservancies and parks will introduce students to practical field research skills. Finally, classroom sessions will engage students in lively group discussions and will include lectures, hands-on analysis, guest speakers, and group work on current and contentious topics in conservation science.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

As new and aspiring graduate students, my aim is to facilitate your development of the skills and knowledge you will need to excel in the field of environmental management and conservation, whether you are interested in an academic career or in doing science-based conservation at government agencies, non-governmental organizations, or international institutions. This class has been designed to hone your creative and critical thinking skills, enhance your communication and debating ability, and expose you to a diverse set of problem solving techniques. I encourage you to challenge current dogma and explore the intersections between applied ecology, your own personal academic interests, and the diversity of fields you will be exposed to at REM.

Overall Learning Outcomes:
By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Identify and synthesize the core principles of applied ecology that should be considered while addressing an environmental issue
  2. Understand the key processes that drive ecosystem dynamics and their associated uncertainties
  3. Communicate complex and/or contentious ecological information clearly and effectively to a target audience
  4. Work independently and collaboratively on contemporary environmental problems to formulate and implement solutions

Grading

  • Individual Assignments 20%
  • Group Projects (2) 40%
  • Midterm Exam 15%
  • Final Exam 20%
  • Class Participation 5%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Kareiva, P. and Marvier, M. 2014. Conservation Science; Balancing the Needs of People and Nature. Roberts and Company. Greenwood Village, Colorado. Second Edition. (available at the Burnaby Campus bookstore)
ISBN: 9781936221493

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS