Professor: Witman Course format: Lecture w/Section Number of respondents: 77 Total Enrollment: 109 Class Composition: Froshs: 26 Sophs: 42 Jrs: 17 Srs: 23 Concs: 38 Non-Concs: 24 Don't Know: 8

Instructor Average: 1.69 Course Average: 1.98

'Principles of Ecology' is a course which introduces students to the basic principles of ecology by exploring the mechanisms behind different levels of the ecosystem, such as populations and communities, and relating them to mathematical models. In order to take this class, students must have had some background in biology, such as Bio 20.

In general, students commended Professor Witman for his organization and visual aids. Handouts and lecture outlines were distributed prior to each class for students to follow along. In addition, the use of the overhead and various slides helped students learn the material that was covered. Students found Professor Witman easy to talk to and to ask questions. However, there was also a general consensus among respondents that Professor Witman's lectures were dry and boring at times.

The majority of the class members felt that this class did not demand a lot of effort, but averaged about 1 to 5 hours each week for the course. Assignments for the course included readings from texts and articles, 3 non-cumulative exams, a grant proposal, one paper of approximately 5 pages, and a presentation.

Most members of the class were glad that they had taken this course because it offered them an overview of ecology. They claimed that they had gained a lot of knowledge concerning the principles of ecology and of biological systems. But others felt that this course was not highly stimulating, particularly as a result of monotonous lectures.

This is a course for those who are interested in ecology and enjoy working with mathematical models, for it greatly stresses graphical analysis. However, for those not interested in ecology, this may not be the right course to take.

View BI/0042 in the Brown Online Course Announcement.