CON-122 Introduction to Applied Field Techniques

Introduction to Applied Field Techniques is designed to train students in the use of standard sampling methods and equipment currently used to measure and or assess a variety of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Students will collect and analyze field data using standard protocols and present their results in a variety of ways.

Credits

3

Department

• Environmental Conservation and Horticulture

Semesters Course Will Be Offered

• Fall

For more detailed course information view the Course Outline

CON 122: Introduction to Applied Field Techniques

Department

Environmental Conservation and Horticulture

Course Description

Introduction to Applied Field Techniques is designed to train students in the use of standard sampling methods and equipment currently used to measure and or assess a variety of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Students will collect and analyze field data using standard protocols and present their results in a variety of ways.

Credit Hours

3

Contact Hours

Lecture	2
Lab	2
Other	0

Grading Scheme

Letter

Semester(s) Course Will Be Offered

Fall

Course Learning Outcomes

1. Describe foundational terminology and concepts associated with terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and sampling.
2. Execute standard ecological sampling procedures.
3. Exercise the steps of scientific method from the initial stages of collecting observations, to building hypotheses.
4. Analyze and report data in standardized format.

Topic Outline

1. Introduction to map and compass
2. Standard sampling designs 
   1. Simple random
   2. Systematic
   3. Stratified
3. Sampling methods for terrestrial environments 
   1. Woody and non-woody plant communities
   2. Soils
4. Sampling methods for wetlands 
   1. Delineation of wetland community boundaries
5. Sampling methods for aquatic environments
   1. Ponds and stream communities