Introduction to Biology: Ecology

In this introductory module, we introduce the course structure and set expectations.

In this module, we will learn about the goals of the science of ecology and some of the ways in which ecology can be applied to help people.

In this module, we will Learn about the factors that influence the distribution of life on Earth, some of the approaches that ecologists use to study ecological communities, and how the concept of an ecological niche can be used to understand the outcome of competition between species.

In this module, we will learn about the development of the equilibrium theory of island biogeography and how it can be applied both to real islands and to protected areas.

In this module, we will learn about the various ways that species interact with one another, the role of keystone species in natural ecosystems, and how disturbances like floods and fires affect ecological communities.

In this module, we will learn how ecologists estimate population sizes of wild animals, the factors that affect population size in animals and people, and the history and recent trends in human population growth.

In this module, we will learn about the major threats to living species and the impacts of habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change on the natural world.

In this module, we will learn about the current declines in biodiversity and how biodiversity loss affects ecosystems and people.

In this module, students will complete their final assessment and review the key concepts covered throughout the course.