While building a foundation in ecological concepts is one of the goals in our introductory ecology course at Colby-Sawyer College, we also strive to develop the foundations in experimental design, data analysis and quantitative literacy. As part of a college wide quantitative literacy initiative, students are expected to learn and apply data management, analysis and dissemination skills using Microsoft Excel. Class projects early in the semester illustrate data manipulation and basic descriptive statistics. Students then conduct independent, small group research projects where they have the opportunity to play a key role from research inception to interpretation. Computer modules, tutorials and instructor guidance help students develop the conceptual framework and spreadsheet skills needed for their own research projects. Student research is then presented both in traditional lab report format and in a poster symposium in an effort to introduce students to different presentation media.
Results/Conclusions
For our science majors, this broad exposure to applying different scientific skills builds the foundation that they will use in their other science courses and will be honed during their independent capstone research. For our non-majors, this experience builds critical thinking and analytical skills that can be applied across disciplines.
