An Integrated Laboratory Exercise in Range Management and Soil Biology. (A01-shuler268299-poster)
Authors:
P.E. Shuler* - Fort Lewis College S. Byrd - Fort Lewis College
Abstract:
National Science Foundation Curriculum Development grant funds were used to develop and implement a series of integrated laboratory exercises in range management and soil science. Students in each laboratory worked on a common project to examine the spatial distribution of mycorrhizal infection of western wheatgrass (Agropyron smithii)(soil science laboratory)and how this might be related to yield and composition of a rangeland vegetative community (range management laboratory). Two years of assessment data have been collected to analyze the impact of the new labs on students appreciation of the microscope as a practical, problem solving research tool. Attitudinal assessment revealed that 75%
of students agreed or strongly agreed that “Their participation in this laboratory exercise helped them appreciate the microscope as a problem solving tool". Specific descriptions of the laboratories are available through the senior author's web site at Fort Lewis College (www.fortlewis.edu).
Speaker Information: Philip Shuler, Fort Lewis College, Department of Agriculture1000 Rim Drive, Durango, CO 81301; Phone: 970-247-7192; E-mail: [email protected]
Session Information: Tuesday, November 4, 2003, 8:00 AM-10:00 AM Presentation Start: 8:00 AM (Poster Board Number: 226)
Keywords: Range Management; Undergraduate education; Laboratory Exercise; Mycorrhiza