Declining Amphibians

DESCRIPTION: The course, "Declining Amphibians", explores the natural history, ecology, and conservation of amphibians with a strong emphasis on understanding the phenomenon of rapid decline and extinction of many amphibian populations world-wide.

Students explore the vast wealth of online information to learn about amphibians and the scientists and conservation programs attempting to understand and address the problem of declining amphibians.

This broad survey course is suitable for a general university audience - both science and non-science majors.

SCHEDULE: Begins: 14 May; Ends by: 3 August, 2001.

FORMAT: Online and web-based (requires a computer with internet and email); Self-paced; Online discussions and information sharing with classmates and the instructor.

ASSIGNMENTS: Online web assignments, participation in online discussion forum, 2 written and graded assignments, no exams.

SUMMER REGISTRATION: Natrs 417, 1 credit. Register through the WSU Summer Session: (http://www.summer.wsu.edu). After you register, send a confirming email to the NRS summer session coordinator to receive additional course instructions: R.D. Sayler (rdsayler@wsu.edu).

What are Amphibian declines and their causes?
What is the scientific evidence?
Why should anybody care?
What efforts are being undertaken to address the problems?
How do you identify and study amphibians?
Which species are in danger in the Pacific Northwest or your home region?
How might you conduct a survey or participate in studies?
What can the average person or community do to help?