Biology: Introduction to Marine Science

An overview of concepts and process in oceanography, geology, ecology, evolution, organismal biology, and conservation. Some of the topics we will discuss in class include tsunamis, ocean chemistry and physics, and bioluminescence. Prerequisites: BCOR 1400, BIOL 1400, or BIOL 1000; BCOR 1450, BIOL 1450, BIOL 1005, or BCOR 1425.

Prereqs enforced:BIOL 1400 or BCOR 1400, and BIOL 1450 BCOR 1450; or BCOR 1425. Catamount Core: N1 PACE students with permission and override

http://www.uvm.edu/cas/biology/courses

Covering about 70% of Earth’s surface, the oceans sustain an estimated 2.2 million eukaryotic species, regulate the planet’s climate, and provide vital resources such as food and biomedical compounds. This introductory course offers students an overview of key concepts in oceanography, marine geology, ecology, evolution, organismal biology, and conservation, emphasizing the interdependence between human well-being and ocean health. Students will explore, among many topics, how coral reefs, sharks, and whales contribute to the balance of marine ecosystems and how environmental and human pressures impact these systems. Through lectures and 'making connection' activities, students will learn about remote sensing, acoustic, and computational tools used to study marine biodiversity and inform conservation efforts. The course also highlights case studies in which local community perspectives and social equity play a key role in sustaining healthy oceans.

Students you should plan to dedicate between 6-8 hours a week to this course. During this course, students will have the opportunity to create a scientific podcast, lead discussions on current scientific literature, talk to scientists, make connections between class and the real-world through several remote and in-person activities. Students are expected to attend class and participate in all course activities.

Four midterm exams (45%), Biweekly quizzes (15%), Making connections activities (30%), Science communication activity (10%). Please not that the instructor can make changes on this evaluation scheme.