BIO4830EN - Biogeography

Course description

Biogeography is an interdisciplinary field that explores the roles that biological and geographical factors play in shaping biodiversity. This course introduces the key drivers, theories, and hypotheses that explain the global distribution of species and provides numerous examples from different plant and animal case studies. Emphasis is placed on the role of vicariance, dispersal, adaptation, palaeo- and contemporary climatic conditions and the effects of global change on species distribution. Additionally, aspects of ecological biogeography, e.g., invasion, migration, island biogeography, biogeography of domesticated biota (selected case studies), ecological conservation, and sustainable food systems are covered in this course.

How this course benefits students

This course introduces students to the biogeographic concepts and processes that impact the ecology of species, communities, and ecosystems. Upon completion, students are able to analyze the factors that affect the distribution patterns of species and develop and test hypotheses that are based on the synthesis of current information.

Why this course is important

This course offers students an opportunity to explore concepts drawn from various disciplines while examining key factors that influence biodiversity and species distribution. The course includes activities and assessments that allow students to expand their understanding of the challenges and potential solutions that relate to issues concerning biodiversity and ecological conservation.

Credit hours
3 hours
Subject area
Biological Studies
Educational level
Bachelor
Learning type
Instructional
Prerequisites
None
Upcoming terms
Pending
* Schedule subject to change. Please contact the Registrar's office with schedule questions.
Professor
Dr. Carla Thomas, Professor of Environmental Studies

How this course relates to missional core values

Biblically based

This course offers insights into our Christian obligation to protect and conserve our environment.

Missionally driven

This course provides students the opportunity to critically examine and apply the principles of sustainability, environmental protection, and biodiversity.

Contextually informed

The interdisciplinary nature of biogeography provides an integrative approach to exploring and synthesizing knowledge from various disciplines.

Interculturally focused

Understanding the drivers that shape the distribution of different species provides valuable insights into answering key questions that underlie the non-uniform distribution of living things worldwide.

Practically minded

This course introduces general theories, hypotheses, and concepts of biodiversity.

Experientially transformed

This course provides an introduction to topics related to biodiversity, ecological conservation, and global change, and sustainability.