Cognitive Science 0207 - Hampshire Woods

The goal of this class is to build a long-term database of animal diversity on Hampshire property. Our environment, both local and global, is dramatically changing, 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 learn to identify and document our local fauna. We will spend a good deal of time exploring our woods to learn together about what is there. We will add our observational data to our own citizen science database project in iNaturalist, and will learn how to summarize, analyze, and make use of the data. We will also examine how long-term databases are used by other research groups, and explore other citizen science research projects. No experience necessary, however students with experience or interest in natural history, animal identification, and computer databases are particularly encouraged to join the class.

Mind, Brain, and Information Independent Work Quantitative Skills 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. Students are expected to spend approximately 6-8 hours of preparation and work outside of class time. Field trip fee $20.