Predator-prey dynamics are an important concept in ecology, often serving as an introduction to the field of community ecology. However, these dynamics are difficult for students to observe directly. We describe a methodology that employs model caterpillars made of clay to estimate rates of predator attack on a prey species. This approach can be…

Discusses the need for long-term field experiments in undergraduate ecology curricula, and describes a field experiment in long-term succession set up to address this need. Reports on findings from the first year of the project. Contains 25 references. (WRM)

Discussed is one teacher's method of teaching students to use various marine and scientific apparati while studying important relationships within the ecosystem. A data retrieval chart is included with questions and problems to ask about the data, along with information on how to interpret the data chart. (MA)

Discusses the properties desirable in a natural area to be used as a teaching tool in college courses such as general biology, botany, zoology, entomology, and ecology. Describes the use of a natural area at Harford Community College, Maryland, and outlines the community involvement in planning and utilizing the area. (JR)

Describes field work utilizing common weeds to teach ecological concepts to biology students. (LS)

Describes a program in environmental education in which secondary school students and teachers extensively studied the North-eastern region of the United States on a one month camping trip. Details of the budget, suggested personal equipment, and group camping equipment are provided. (JR)

Develops a simple tree-ring laboratory to demonstrate the basics of dendrochronology. Provides two upper-level laboratory exercises primarily intended to demonstrate the specific dendrochronology subdisciplines of dendroclimatology and dendroecology. Suggests using the exercises separately or in unison as part of a multidisciplinary capstone…

Described is a project designed to determine the kinds and types of science laboratories located in and around Yolo County, California. Summarized are some of the sites visited by the investigator and some of the impressions of those facilities. (CW)

A simple and effective field exercise that demonstrates factors affecting predation on bird nests is described. With instructor guidance, students in high school biology or college-level biology, ecology, animal behavior, wildlife management or ornithology laboratory courses can collaborate to design field experiments related to nest depredation.

Describes a tape-guided field trip that has been used successfully with college biology students in the University of California Botanical Garden. This program enables large numbers of students to make individual biological observations in the field with the aid of a specially tailored, taped guide. (JR)

Describes the procedures used by a high school biology class in an ecological study related to the degeneration of grasslands. The canopy-coverage method of vegetational analysis was used to compare a low-grade, over-grazed pasture with a nearby high-quality prairie. An interpretation of the results is also presented. (JR)

Utilizing the vast diversity of planktonic communities that exist in local, temperate ponds and lakes, the authors describe a simple exercise that gives students both a field and classroom experience in biodiversity. (ZWH)

Describes a fieldwork project in archaeology for teachers. Discusses one teacher's involvement in the Nevada program including field techniques and the development of a classroom lesson. Gives an address for obtaining information about the program. (CW)

Asserts that field experiences cannot be replaced by a textbook or a computer program and discusses why field trips at the college level are in decline. (PR)