To learn more about the course, please refer to the latest course syllabus:
Course Description
An overview of theory and concepts in ecosystem ecology through a survey of the literature, including classical papers. Ecosystem ecology is a subfield of ecology that attempts to simplify and explain complex natural systems, including both their living and non-living components, at multiple scales. Students in this class will learn to apply the tools and concepts of ecosystem to describe the structure and function of ecosystems and to understand how ecosystems change over time due to natural and human-driven mechanisms. Topics covered in this course include global productivity, food webs and energy transfer, cycling of important elements like nitrogen and phosphorus, and the roles that organisms (including humans) play in driving ecosystem function. Students will learn the value of using an ecosystem approach to manage natural systems for human well-being and for the conservation of natural biodiversity.
Course Format
This course is taught as a discussion-based seminar. Each Monday, I will provide an introduction to a topic in ecosystem ecology in traditional lecture format, and you will read ~2-3 primary articles on that topic. We will meet each Wednesday to discuss the readings. Students will be required to post answers to discussion questions ahead of class on Wednesday and actively participate during the in-person discussion. We will also have two take-home exams that will require you to synthesize ideas across several topics, and a project that challenges you to apply a systems-based approach to a question of your choice.
Course Goals
By the end of the semester, students will:
- Understand biotic and abiotic processes that drive global production and cycling of energy and materials through ecosystems.
- Apply an ecosystem approach to describe the structure and function of ecosystems and compare ecosystems.
- Critically evaluate how ecosystem functions affect human societies and how human activities have modified ecosystems.
- Have the ability to read and evaluate primary scientific literature in the field.
- Understand scientific issues and uncertainties relevant to related policy decisions.
What students say about the course...
“Dr. Alldred is great at coming up with examples and ways to explain difficult theoretical material to us.”
"I had a lot of fun with this course and have come out of it a lot more confident in my overall ability to read and understand scientific literature. The discussions were really great! One of my favorite courses so far!!"
“In terms of getting class discussions going and establishing dialogue she is probably one of the best professors I've had.”
“The lecture/discussion/reading layout is very [effective].”
“I learned a lot about reading scientific papers, learned about a wide range of subjects.”
“Very kind and understanding, engaging and sprinkles fun in liberally to keep us focused.”
“Kept thingsinteresting during lectures. Usually I got sleepy during evening classes but not this one.”
“Mary is incredibly caring and is willing to take time to help any student who asks for it.”