Cognitive Science 0279 - Biodiversity: Hampshire Woods

Although previous students and classes have studied various aspects of biodiversity in the Hampshire Woods over the years, much of the data they collected tends to be lost with the passing of time. The goal of this class is to take the first steps toward building a long-term database of animal diversity on Hampshire property. The rationale for this goal is that the earth's climate is near the beginning of likely dramatic upcoming changes, and it is of utmost importance to document biodiversity now, before we lose species we may not have realized were here. Students in this exploratory class will work together to figure out a plan for documenting biodiversity. We will examine how long-term databases are used by other research groups, set up a pilot database of our own, and will spend a good deal of time exploring our woods to learn together about what is there. Students with experience or interest in natural history, animal identification, and computer databases are particularly encouraged to join the class.

Quantitative Skills Independent Work Students must be willing to do regular fieldwork (occasionally in inclement weather), and it is preferable if you have patience and can pay close attention to detail. In this course, students are expected to spend at least six to eight hours a week of preparation and work outside of class time. This time includes reading, writing, research, and conducting observations in the woods with other students from class.