Ornithology (with Lab)
Course Description
Summary
Discover birds like you’ve never seen or heard them before. This class takes an integrative approach to ornithology, as we will explore avian species from the perspective of evolution, natural history, development, ecology, conservation, physiology, genetics, behavior, functional morphology, and even quantum mechanics. This course will explore topics essential to understanding this unique class of vertebrates, such as flight, migration, communication, sexual selection, and more. Students will participate in an early morning laboratory focused on developing avian field techniques and identification skills. Students can expect to gain a life-long appreciation for and fascination of birds. The laboratory portion is scheduled for Fridays from 8:00am-10:20am.
Learning Outcomes
- Explain the fundamental principles of avian biology, including anatomy, physiology, behavior, ecology, and evolution.
- Integrate concepts across disciplines to understand how birds function in natural environments.
- Apply critical thinking skills to interpret data, evaluate scientific studies, and generate evidence-based explanations of avian phenomena.
- Communicate scientific ideas effectively in both written and oral formats, using appropriate evidence and terminology.
- Develop and apply field and observational skills, including bird identification, behavioral observation, and systematic data collection.
- Formulate and investigate testable questions about avian biology through field-based or observational research.