REU Site: The Study of Ecology as an Interactive process: Research Problems and Strategies for the Undergraduate

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This award provides continuing support to The Institute of Ecosystem Studies' Research Experiences for Undergraduates (IES- REU) SITE. The program will immerse students in a highly interactive, research oriented environment. The major tenet is that success in science depends on understanding the context of research, as well as the substance and procedures of a particular discipline. Program goals are: (1) to provide intensive training in ecological research; (2) to broaden students' perspectives on the societal, ethical and theoretical contexts of science; (3) to give students direct exposure to the life of a research scientist; and (4) to promote an understanding of ecology. Eight students will be brought to the Institute for a twelve-week program in each of the next three summers, building upon the strengths of the highly successful 1988-1990 programs. The program will include the following components: (1) Student Research Projects; (2) Research Strategies for the Undergraduate, a series of intensive training sessions; (3) Research in Context, a seminar series designed to broaden students' perspectives on the various components and applications of science; (4) Forum on Opportunities in Ecology, a full-day program with representatives from a broad spectrum of ecological and related disciplines; (5) Ecology Seminars; and (6) a variety of other supporting activities. Under the guidance of a mentor scientist, each student will delineate a research question and associated hypotheses, select appropriate methods, and develop a research plan. Students will then implement the project, finishing with analysis and report writing. Presentations in a formal Research Symposium will conclude the summer program. Final papers will be collated and published as an IES Occasional Publication.