I still have a few spots available for my Primate Behavior and Conservation Field Course in Costa Rica June 8-July 1, 2014.
Costa Rica is one of the most biologically diverse and conservation-minded countries in the world. Students in this course will spend three weeks at the Piro Biological Station on the Osa Peninsula in Southern Costa Rica living up close and personal with the natural environment. The Osa Peninsula is renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life and is one of the few places in Costa Rica where one can observe all four of the country's primate species: white-faced capuchins, squirrel monkeys, howler monkeys and spider monkeys. Other species present at the site include macaws, peccaries, sloths, curassows and jaguars. The beginning of the course will introduce students to the basics of animal behavior, primate studies and methods in primatology. During this time, students will work on deciding on a research question to pursue independently. We will discuss what makes a good research question and how to create and test hypotheses. Students will then design and carry out non-invasive projects based on the primates at the conservation center. At the end of the class, students will present their work to their classmates. It is likely that students can complete research of a caliber to be submitted to journals, or presented at scientific conferences upon their return. In addition to their scientific studies, students will be able to participate in a service-learning component of class and help with a conservation project underway at the field station. Students will come away from this course with a concrete appreciation and understanding of the diversity of the natural world, as well as practical experience in planning and carrying out an independent research project. These experiences and skills will be helpful for science majors, and also for anyone who is interested in the study of behavior and evolution. An opportunity such as this can be a truly unique and life-changing experience. Course dates are June 8-July 1, 2014. Course fee of $2,850 includes 4 credits of tuition, travel within Costa Rica, lodging and most meals. Does not include airfare to Costa Rica. To apply or for more information, email [email protected]. -- Laurie Kauffman, PhD Assistant Professor of Biology Oklahoma City University 2501 N. Blackwelder Oklahoma City, OK 73106 405-208-5033 http://ocu-stars.okcu.edu/lkauffman/ Twitter: @DrYapYapi
