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Conservation Biology (Field Research in Nova Scotia): Click here to see the course syllabus.
Course Description: Graduate students earn four university science credits by completing this seven week course that combines four weeks of online activities covering conservation biology concepts, eight days of field research in Nova Scotia, and two weeks of online analysis and conclusion activities. Teachers - although the course runs until August 28th, the last two weeks are conducted online. The research component concludes on August 16th. Therefore, the trip to Nova Scotia should not interfere with the first week of teacher workdays.
Course Instructors: Florian Schmitt and Chris Packert - You can read their biographies by clicking on the "AES Faculty" link in the navigation bar at the top of the page.
This is a unique experience for people involved in science education to participate in a Community of Practice educational model while studying environmental science concepts. This course unites high school students who qualify for our Advanced Scholars program, undergraduate students seeking specific environmental content, and graduate students looking to diversify their teaching methods. Graduate students learn how to develop a science curriculum that engages undergraduate and high school students in online activities and field-based research. Course participants develop knowledge of conservation biology, and learn to implement equipment like digital prep scopes, Vernier LabQuests, and GPS units to conduct scientific research. They also learn how to use Web 2.0 programs like WiZiQ and Wikispaces. Those who complete this course will learn how to connect online teaching tools with field-based research. Participants who successfully complete our courses can also apply to become mentors for future courses. If you like to be a part of a learning community, use technology to engage students, and enjoy exploring majestic regions of our planet, this course is for you.
Course Timeline:
Pretrip Online Coursework: July 13th - August 7th, 2009
Bay of Fundy Expedition: August 8th - August 16th, 2009
Follow-up Online Activities: August 17th- August 28th, 2009
Tuition and Fees:
$1,100.00 for four university science credits. The Academy of Environmental Sciences courses are accredited through Virginia Commonwealth University.
Trip Expenses: $1,765.00. Trip expenses include airfare, lodging, ground transportation, onsite instructors, park entrance fees, and travelers insurance. Meals are not factored into the cost of the trip and will be an additional expense. Students must have a valid passport to participate. The price for this trip is based upon twenty participants and may fluxuate slightly with the number of students enrolled.
Course Registration: Registration is currently open. To register for Conservation Biology, click on the Course Registration link, complete the online registration form, and pay your nonrefundable deposit. Space is limited, so we suggest enrolling as soon as possible. Once registration has been completed, further instructions will follow.
Payment Schedule:
Down Payment: $300.00 (Nonrefundable but is transferable to a new student): Due at registration.
Second Payment: 50% of the trip cost: Due by May 1st, 2009
Final Payment: Balance due June 15th, 2009
Refund Policy:
A partial refund may be available and is dependent upon when The RiverRidge Foundation is notified of the cancellation in writing. Use the following information to calculate the amount of a refund.
130 or more days prior to departure: Refund less the down payment of $300.00
129 - 100 days prior to departure: Refund less the down payment and $100.00 plus any nonrefundable reservations.
99 - 0 days prior to departure: Refund less the down payment and $400.00 plus any nonrefundable reservations.
Substantial payments and deposits are made on the traveler's behalf to airlines, hotels, transportation companies, and overseas suppliers well in advance of departure and are nonrefundable. No refunds will be given for any missed or unused services obtained for this course.
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