PLSCI 2536

Evolutionary Ecology of Ecuador

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

This course empowers students to transform field observations from Ecuador into a research paper connecting findings to scientific literature. Data analysis workshops will cover how to manage, analyze, display, and interpret field data. Students will develop data literacy by identifying the strengths and limitations of scientific inference and communicate findings through a research paper outline, a short presentation, natural history reflections, and a final research report. The course will also invite students to unpack their lived experience in Ecuador reflecting on observed biology, future interests, and the cultural humility gained through biodiversity-focused field work. These reflections will connect the extraordinary travel experience to students' broader identities and personal growth.

Prerequisites PLSCI 2535.

Last 4 Terms Offered (None)

Learning Outcomes

• Evaluate connections between biological and cultural travel experiences and their own lived experience and identity.
• Demonstrate an understanding of ecological and evolutionary processes that shape species diversity and interactions in Ecuador.
• Design data analysis and visualization of group and individual field collected data.
• Synthesize multiple forms of inquiry (natural history observations, statistical analysis, published literature) to develop a term paper focused on analyzing and interpreting field data
• Compare field research findings to the scientific literature and propose future research.

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