Reference no: EM133981344

Overview
The final project for this course is the creation of a research paper.
The primary goals for this course are to learn about the importance of biodiversity and to apply biological principles to reverse trends in species loss. In this final project, you will select one of following five species: black rhinoceros, Diceros bicornis; red knot, Calidris canutus; harpy eagle, Harpia harpyja; Kemp's ridley turtle, Lepidochelys kempii; or Bornean or Sumatran orangutan, Pongo pygmaeus, P. albelii. You will then summarize the species' ecology, emphasizing the underlying threats to its existence. Demonstrate your grasp of the relevant ecological principles. Maximize your scores with our expert assignment help - get help now!
It is a critical challenge for conservationists to clearly present information about the ecology of a species and the underlying threats to its existence. In this research paper, you will explore the following questions: What are the basic characteristics of a species, and how do these characteristics interact with environmental factors to influence the likelihood of its long-term persistence? What specific threats exist to a species' survival, and how might these threats be addressed through legal actions or societal changes? How should we balance the demands of human needs with those of species facing extinction?
This assignment is multilayered. It encourages you to make connections among the themes in the course by preparing a single document focused on one species. You will incorporate information from both primary and secondary sources that you have found as part of a literature review. You will develop your ability to synthesize complex ideas based on reasoned interpretation of existing course materials. Furthermore, you will hone your ability to locate refined and reliable commentary by judging each potential source's significance and validity.
The project is divided into three milestones, which will be submitted at various points throughout the course to scaffold learning and ensure quality final submissions. These milestones will be submitted in Modules Two, Four, and Six. The final submission is due in Module Seven.
This assessment addresses the following course outcomes:
Critically evaluate the significance and validity of empirical research in the fields of conservation biology and ecology
Understand the concepts of biodiversity conservation, particularly as applied to field situations
Compare the strengths and weaknesses of past and current restoration and conservation attempts
Critique management and monitoring plans for species