Amphibian Research Lab @ Bucknell University
Ecology, Ethology & Conservation
Teaching
Advanced Methods in Animal Behavior (ANBE/PSYC 296)
Organisms behaviorally respond to biotic and abiotic stimuli. We are inherently interested in behaviors of animals. Without training, however, it is difficult to start asking questions about ecological interplays between organisms and their surrounding environments. Possible questions in the field of animal behavior also include physiological, biochemical, or neurological mechanisms of behaviors of interest. Then, how do we test those questions and ideas? This course will provide students hands-on experiences of conducting research in the field of animal behavior: observing behaviors, forming your hypotheses, designing experiments, and testing your hypotheses. In addition, we will learn how to find and synthesize existing knowledge, write scientifically, and present work professionally.
Amphibian Biology and Conservation (ANBE/BIOL 314/614)
On-going global amphibian decline has received increasing media attention, but current research and conservation efforts are insufficient to safeguard these fascinating animals. As a result, amphibians are the most threatened group of vertebrates in the world. The lecture section of this course broadly explores the biology of amphibians as well as environmental issues that are driving the extinction of frog and salamander populations. The laboratory section will include lab- and field- identification of amphibians and the survey of amphibian killing fungi (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis) among local amphibian populations. Through lectures and lab activities, students will develop the ability to (1) read, critique, and interpret scientific papers, (2) synthesize information, ideas, and data to draw reasonable inferences, and (3) scientifically write and orally present their work.
Mass Extinctions (ANBE/BIOL 382)
We are experiencing a biodiversity extinction crisis due to human activities such as habitat destruction and fragmentation, introduced invasive species, pollution, overexploitation, and climate change. Scientists argue that we are in the midst of the 6th mass extinction following the five mass extinction events that happened before us. The critical difference between the past five and the current mass extinction is that the current event is caused by a single species, us humans, whereas the past five events were caused by geological events. This course will explore the past five mass extinctions in order to better understand the processes and possible outcomes of the ongoing 6th mass extinction from the perspectives of ecology, evolution, and conservation biology. We will also think about how the ongoing mass extinction will affect us humans and ways to mitigate the biodiversity crisis.
Sustainability in Japan (UNIV 212: Integrated Perspective, Global Connection)
This is a three-week summer course that Prof. Armstrong in East Asian Studies and I co-teach every other year (summer 2016 and summer 2018 so far). The goal of this course is to introduce students to unique attitudes, approaches, and solutions Japan has marshaled in regard to sustainability in four areas: unclear power use, environment, language, and culture. To achieve this goal, we will spend the first week on campus establishing foundation in each of the four areas and also preparing for the trip to Japan. Then, we will visit Japan and stay in Kyoto for two weeks. During the two weeks, students will gain first-hand observations and experiences with the study theme through interactions with students from a local university, visits to related facilities and places including world-renowned temples and shrines, and daily discussions with us and invited speakers. We will also visit natural areas such as Kamo River to learn about environmental sustainability and interactions between local people and surrounding nature. Click here to learn more about the program.