Complete the online course applicationIntroduction to Field Techniques for Conservation Research
September 17-28, 2007
A major component of ecological studies involves conducting field research. This course will provide participants with an introduction to various field techniques used to inventory, assess, and monitor species. Too often, people become familiar with one technique and are not familiar with the variety of options available. Each method has its pros and cons and participants will become familiar with these as they assess which technique to use to conduct certain research projects.
This course is designed for early career resource managers, graduate students, and other people who are looking to gain a broad overview of techniques. Participants will gain a breadth of information from Smithsonian and affiliate instructors.
An intensive two-week training will take place at the Zoo's Conservation and Research Center in Front Royal, Virginia. This location will provide participants with the opportunity to learn from Smithsonian and affiliate instructors and conduct field work on site. Participants will be taught through classroom lecture, hands-on applications, field work and through various independent and group projects. Class and field work will generally take place between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., with an hour for lunch. Some additional evening lectures or discussions will take place and some field work will likely be conducted early in the morning or at night.
Objectives
Participants will:
- Receive a comprehensive overview of experimental design and the various techniques being used in inventorying, assessing and monitoring various taxa.
- Understand the pros and cons of each technique and be able to determine which technique is best to use under certain conditions.
- Learn how to apply the techniques to their current or future research projects.
- Join a network of like-minded people and be encouraged to continue learning about conservation tools.
Cost
$2,850
The cost covers instruction, course materials, lodging, food, and local transportation during the course.
