In Field Ecology, I teach modern methods of field study as well as help students develop a useful skillset in identification. By the end of the semester, not only do they understand methods such as sightability modeling, quadrat sampling, and mark and recapture, but they are also familiar with most major flora, fauna, and fungi that are native to North Carolina. For any vertebrate interaction, we closely follow our university approved Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) protocol.
You can also view the subreddit dedicated to the students’ field activities (and anything relevant that see both before, during, and after the course.
Students are assessed on field technique, ID quizzes (using preserved animals and live plant samples), reports from the literature, and exams.
We are also heavily involved in campus engagement. We’ve helped the grounds department in forest survey and are currently tracking species specific urbanization effects on campus. We also participate in all related Earth Month activities.