FACULTY

Margaret Mulvey

Courses:
Concepts and Controversies in Environmental Science (2 high school credits)
In this course, students will integrate aspects of biology, chemistry, earth science, and physics in the study of the environment. Exploration of relationships between organisms and their biotic and abiotic environment at multiple levels of biological system hierarchy serves as the foundation for this course. Laboratory and fieldwork in various ecosystems are also integral components of the course. Students will undertake monthly sampling of a nearby pond ecosystem for water quality and biotic components. Field methods include quadrate and transect sampling, as well as various techniques for surveying animal communities and monitoring water quality. While analyzing their own data, students will become familiar with concepts such as spatial and temporal variation in natural systems, species diversity, and community similarity indices. Critical thinking, risk analysis, and cost-benefit analysis will be emphasized as students identify and analyze alternative solutions to complex environmental problems. Whenever possible, current or on-going environmental issues and/or case histories will be emphasized.