Course Title: Exploring Wisconsin Ecosystems and Management Issues
Course Description:
“Wisconsin Ecosystems and Management Issues” is an online course designed to delve into the diverse ecosystems of Wisconsin and the complex environmental management challenges facing the state. Through weekly online lectures, interactive discussions, virtual field trips, and multimedia resources, students will examine the ecological diversity, conservation efforts, and sustainability issues unique to Wisconsin’s natural landscapes.
Course Objectives:
Study Wisconsin Ecosystems: Explore the ecological diversity of Wisconsin, including its forests, wetlands, prairies, rivers, and lakes, and the unique flora and fauna that inhabit these ecosystems.
Analyze Environmental Threats: Investigate the environmental threats facing Wisconsin’s ecosystems, such as habitat loss, invasive species, pollution, climate change, and land use changes.
Examine Conservation Strategies: Examine conservation and restoration efforts aimed at protecting and preserving Wisconsin’s natural resources, including habitat restoration, endangered species management, and sustainable land use practices.
Understand Resource Management: Explore the management of natural resources in Wisconsin, including forestry, agriculture, fisheries, and water management, and the balance between economic development and environmental conservation.
Address Societal Impacts: Consider the societal impacts of environmental management decisions on communities, economies, public health, and cultural heritage in Wisconsin.
Engage in Solutions: Discuss and evaluate potential solutions to environmental management issues in Wisconsin, including policy initiatives, community-based conservation efforts, and sustainable development practices.
Course Format: (Beginning January, 2025)
This online course will be delivered through weekly live lectures, pre-recorded video presentations, interactive discussions, virtual field trips, and multimedia resources accessible via the online learning platform. Students will have the flexibility to engage with course materials at their own pace while participating in scheduled live sessions for real-time interaction with the instructor and peers.
Self-Paced Option (anytime after June 11, 2024)
Students who want to work at their own pace can skip the online meetings and progress through the course independently. Students who choose this option will have assignments and assessments graded as usual. Teachers continue to provide assistance and feedback. Self-paced courses still qualify for credit.
Prerequisites:
No prior coursework in ecology or environmental science is required, although a basic understanding of ecological concepts is beneficial. Students should have access to a computer with internet connectivity and be comfortable using online learning platforms and communication tools.
Assessment:
Assessment will be based on participation in online discussions, completion of assignments and quizzes, performance on exams, and the quality of ecosystem management projects. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking skills, scientific inquiry, communication skills, and application of course concepts to real-world scenarios.
Note:
This course will empower students to become informed stewards of Wisconsin’s natural resources and inspire them to actively participate in efforts to conserve and sustainably manage the state’s diverse ecosystems for future generations.