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

Institution:

Colgate University

Subject:

Description:

C. Soja Intensive investigation of fossil and modern reefs is the focus of this 0.25-credit, 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. Prerequisites : GEOL 215 (formerl y GEO L 315), GEOL 302 (may be taken concurrently), or permission of instructor. This course is graded as satisfactory/unsatisfactory (S/U).

Credits:

0.25

Credit Hours:

Prerequisites:

Corequisites:

Exclusions:

Level:

Instructional Type:

Lecture

Notes:

Additional Information:

Historical Version(s):

Institution Website:

www.colgate.edu

Phone Number:

(315) 228-1000

Regional Accreditation:

Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools

Calendar System:

Semester

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