The course presents an overview of the theory behind biological diversity evolution and dynamics and of methods for diversity calculation and estimation. We will become familiar with the major alpha, beta, and gamma diversity estimation techniques.
About the course
Understanding how biodiversity evolved and is evolving on Earth and how to correctly use and interpret biodiversity data is important for all students interested in conservation biology and ecology, whether they pursue careers in academia or as policy makers and other professionals (students graduating from our programs do both). Academics need to be able to use the theories and indices correctly, whereas policy makers must be able to understand and interpret the conclusions offered by the academics.
The course has the following expectations and results:
- covers the theoretical and practical issues involved in biodiversity theory,
- conducting surveys and inventories of biodiversity,
- analyzing the information gathered,
- and applying their analysis to ecological and conservation problems.
Target Audience
- Lower-intermediate division undergraduate
- Upper division undergraduate
- Professional or Graduate
- Master and Ph.D. students
Needed Learner Background
Basics of Ecology and Calculus; good understanding of English
Terms and Conditions
To access the course content, you’ll need to register on the platform and to enroll into the course. When a learner is enrolled, the course appears on their course dashboard. All enrolled learners (including auditors and learners in the premium experience) receive course announcements, deadline reminders, and progress tracking.
Auditors have “view only access” to assignments, and can not receive grades or earn certificates. The premium experience may be accessed by paying the Course Certificate fee for the course or by receiving financial aid.
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Enrollment status | Videos & Readings | Discussion forums | Practice assignments | Required assignments | Course Certificate |
| Audit | Enrolled | Full access | Full access | Full access | View only | Not eligible |
| Premium | Enrolled | Full access | Full access | Full access | Full access | Eligible |
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Instructor
Roberto Cazzolla Gatti
Ph.D., Associate Professor in Ecology and Biodiversity,
Biological Diversity and Ecology Laboratory,
Bio-Clim-Land Centre of Excellence, Biological Institute, Tomsk State University