Environmental Sampling and Study Design

Catalog description

This course will focus on teaching students the aspects of environmental study design and common methods for the sampling and analysis of environmental samples (e.g., vegetation, wildlife, soil and water). Students will learn the process of conducting literature searches and how to use this information to craft research questions and develop hypotheses. Students will design environmental sampling protocols to evaluate a research question and collect and analyze samples and interpret their findings. Classes will consist of lectures, field activities, laboratory analyses, and group activities/discussions. Participants should feel comfortable collecting samples from field sites in a variety of weather conditions and hiking through uneven terrain.