Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2021 - ECO 621 G100

Graduate Seminars in Research Methods (3)

Class Number: 4780

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 8 – Dec 7, 2021: Tue, 11:30 a.m.–2:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    ECOR 9100 - Concepts of ER & the Physical Environment; ECO 611 - Concepts of ER & the Biological Environment; ECOR 9110 - Planning & Monitoring for ER.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

An examination into the general philosophical foundations of science, the nature of scientific disputes, and the relevance of these to ecology. Topics covered include the following fundamental concepts: science, the scientific method, reliable knowledge, poor science, hypothetical-deductive approach, hypothesis testing and experimental design.

COURSE DETAILS:

Ecological restoration actions grow from the identification of research questions -- Why is the tidal marsh receding and losing habitat? Will there be sufficient wetland habitat along the Fraser River delta in 100 years to support red listed, endangered species? -- The primary goal of ECO621 is to give students a safe space to learn how to ask relevant and important questions about nature and ecological restoration. We will address this goal through weekly readings and quizzes, in-class discussions, written exercises, focused projects and exams. The focus of the class will aid students in preparation of your Applied Research Proposal, due toward the end of your first year in the program.

This course will be offered in-person for Fall 2021. If there are any changes in this outline, the Instructor will provide students with a statement setting out those changes within the first week of classes.

Grading

  • Weekly Reading Summaries 20%
  • Weekly Quizzes 20%
  • Projects 20%
  • Exams 30%
  • Discussion Participation 10%

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:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://www.sfu.ca/students/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

TEACHING AT SFU IN FALL 2021

Teaching at SFU in fall 2021 will involve primarily in-person instruction, with approximately 70 to 80 per cent of classes in person/on campus, with safety plans in place.  Whether your course will be in-person or through remote methods will be clearly identified in the schedule of classes.  You will also know at enrollment whether remote course components will be “live” (synchronous) or at your own pace (asynchronous).

Enrolling in a course acknowledges that you are able to attend in whatever format is required.  You should not enroll in a course that is in-person if you are not able to return to campus, and should be aware that remote study may entail different modes of learning, interaction with your instructor, and ways of getting feedback on your work than may be the case for in-person classes.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the context of remote learning, are advised to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as early as possible in order to prepare for the fall 2021 term.