Course Details
Course Code: EVSP417 Course ID: 4371 Credit Hours: 3 Level: Undergraduate
This course examines the fundamental biological and ecological principles of conservation biology. Instruction covers measures of biological diversity, species concepts, genetics of small population viability analysis, and metapopulation dynamics; habitat fragmentation including edge effects, corridors and patch dynamics; reserve design principles; setting biodiversity priorities; and monitoring indices. Changes in land use patterns and the science of Landscape Ecology are also investigated. Current conservation techniques are reviewed through the use of case studies and computer exercises. (Prerequisites: BIOL133 or SCIN130)
Course Schedule
| Registration Dates | Course Dates | Session | Weeks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11/30/20 - 04/30/21 | 05/03/21 - 06/27/21 | Spring 2021 Session I | 8 Week session |
| 02/22/21 - 07/30/21 | 08/02/21 - 09/26/21 | Summer 2021 Session I | 8 Week session |
Current Syllabi
The successful student will fulfill the following learning objectives:
- Explain the principles of conservation biology.
- Explain the concepts of extinction, species conservation, and biodiversity.
- Assess the role of conservation genetics theory in the preservation of biodiversity.
- Apply at least three quantitative methods used to assess the status of populations.
- Explain how the human dimension (human behavior, economics, land use, and others) effects the conservation of species.
- Evaluate strategies and tools used to conserve species or habitat at risk of extinction or destruction.
| Name | Grade % |
|---|---|
| Forums | 24.00 % |
| Forum 1 | 3.00 % |
| Forum 2 | 3.00 % |
| Forum 3 | 3.00 % |
| Forum 4 | 3.00 % |
| Forum 5 | 3.00 % |
| Forum 6 | 3.00 % |
| Forum 7 | 3.00 % |
| Forum 8 | 3.00 % |
| Assignments | 76.00 % |
| Assignment 1 (Wk 2) | 19.00 % |
| Assignment 2 (Wk 4) | 19.00 % |
| Assignment 3 (Wk 6) | 19.00 % |
| Assignment 4 (Wk 8) | 19.00 % |
Required Readings
See the Lessons section of the classroom for additional readings and weekly lecture notes
Additional Resources: Please go to the program guides in the APUS Library for additional resources:
- Environmental Science: http://apus.libguides.com/environmental_science
Software Requirements
- Microsoft Office (MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint) - American Public University System provides Microsoft Office 365 to AMU/APU students and faculty at no cost
- Adobe Acrobat Reader
| Book Title: | Various resources from the APUS Library & the Open Web are used. Please visit http://apus.libguides.com/er.php to locate the course eReserve.* |
| ISBN: | ERESERVE NOTE |