2017-2018 University Catalogue 
    
    Mar 29, 2024  
2017-2018 University Catalogue [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

GEOL 415L - Tropical Field Course on Modern and Pleistocene Reefs


Intensive investigation of fossil and modern reefs is the focus of this field-based “outdoor laboratory” course. Student participants complete a project based on collection of data in the field to learn first-hand about coral reefs, one of the most important and most threatened ecosystems on Earth. During a nine-day trip to the tropics over spring break (or January), students engage in practical exercises to study reef communities past and present. Research projects involve snorkeling to make observations of modern reefs and their inhabitants, including aquatic surveys to assess biodiversity. Projects also include comparison of modern reefs with fossil (Pleistocene) reefs exposed on land. Final reports rely on these and other data to assess the changes reef species have experienced in abundance, diversity, and health through time; and to consider debates about the past, present, and future status of coral reefs. Students complete a short final paper and present research results after they return to campus. This course is graded as satisfactory/unsatisfactory (S/U).

Credits: 0.25
Corequisite: None
Prerequisites: GEOL 215  
Major/Minor Restrictions: None
Class Restriction: None
Area of Inquiry: None
Liberal Arts CORE: None


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