Cognitive Science 0275 - Research in Avian Behavior

This class will help refine your knowledge of research methods needed to propose and carry out studies of animal behavior, with emphasis on avian behavior. We will read papers from the primary literature that emphasize the use of particular methods, and we will discuss the main techniques that are used to design and carry out behavioral studies on birds. We will collect data on both wild (ducks, passerines) and domesticated birds (chickens). Students will carry out a project during the semester, including data collection, analysis and presentation, and submit a paper. The paper will include proposal of an experiment that could form the basis of continuing your research further. We will have three birding trips on Saturday mornings, and students are expected to attend unless they have a documented conflict. Although the class will emphasize techniques to study avian behavior, projects on other taxa will be considered, particularly if the student has demonstrated interest in a particular group. We will spend time outdoors in cold weather. Students will need to collect data independently and out of class hours. We will analyze data using common statistical techniques.

Independent Work Quantitative Skills Division II and Division III students are encouraged to enroll.