Insect Connections: Insects, Globalization and Sustainability

Catalog description

An introduction to the diversity of insects and the ways in which they interact with humans and impact our world. ENT 202N is a Science course that will use an interdisciplinary approach to look at the biology and the interplay between nature and society. Major themes of the course will be illustrated by focusing on the world of Insects and the relationships between society and Insects. Emphasis will be placed on critical analysis of both the costs and the benefits of human activities that impact natural systems. Course Learning Goals : 1. Discuss, describe, and give examples of relevant ecological and evolutionary processes and / or phenomena. 2. Apply content knowledge and understanding in novel contexts and situations. 3. Recognize the implications of the two-way dynamic between human activities and insects and how these dynamics differ in different parts of the world. 4. Make predictions associated with likely impacts of human activities on natural systems, ecosystem services, and insect and human populations. 5. Conduct research of relevant literature and utilize empirical evidence to support claims made in a popular press news story about insects. 6. Discuss, describe, and give examples of the two-way relationship between social issues and scientific discovery. 7. Communicate scientific knowledge to a diverse audience.