Catalog Course Description

In this class, students study the natural history and evolutionary biology of island terrestrial and freshwater organisms and their communities, and of marine organisms in the coral reef and lagoon systems. The students also learn about the geomorphology of volcanic islands, coral reefs, and reef islands. Features of island biogeography are illustrated with topics linked to subsequent field studies on the island of Mo’orea, French Polynesia. The course trains students as independent scientists, as students develop, conduct, and communicate independent research projects on a topic of their choice.

Fall Term

14 hours of Instructional activity in non-classroom settings per week and 10 hours of Instructor presentation of course materials per week and 21 hours of Outside Work Hours per week.

Spring Term

14 hours of Instructional activity in non-classroom settings per week and 10 hours of Instructor presentation of course materials per week and 21 hours of Outside Work Hours per week.