FISH 110- Fish & Fisheries in a Changing World

This course is an exploration of the patterns of fish diversity, the ecological and evolutionary processes that give rise to that diversity, and the resilience and sustainability that result. The topics that we will cover are intended to act as foundational principles that fisheries resource professionals will use throughout their careers. Together we will examine the complexity of what constitutes a ‘fishery’ and better understand the factors that have led some fisheries to collapse and others to persist. In addition to lectures, students will read, discuss, and write extensively and by doing so, can expect to gain better understanding of the “science of sustainability” with regards to 21st century fisheries in Alaska and beyond.   

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This course has the following objectives for student learning:

• To develop a thorough understanding of the complexity of natural resource issues;

• To critically read and synthesize diverse opinions on issues;

• To foster each student’s own informed views of complex natural resource issues;

• To clearly express those views in writing and in discussion with peers.

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FISH 425/650- Fish Ecology​ 

This course is an exploration of how fish interact with, and adapt to, their physical and biological environment, taught through the viewpoint that habitat diversity acts as a template for biological diversity within and among species. We will examine the ecology of major freshwater and marine habitats (with an emphasis on the former), as well as the potential threats to these habitats from human activity. 

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This course has the following objectives for student learning:

• To strengthen student understanding of the factors that shape the ecological diversity of fish populations;

• To critically read and be able to articulate diverse opinions on fish-related ecological issues;

• To foster each student’s own informed views of complex fish-related ecological issues;

• To writing and in discussion with peers.

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Salmon, People, and Place

An in-depth exploration of the complex and dynamic connections between salmon and human society. Students will learn about current major issues facing salmon and salmon-dependent people in Alaska and beyond through interactions with guest topic area experts as well as hands-on work in a laboratory section. Students should expect to read, discuss, and write throughout the course and by doing so become more informed and empowered to confront the challenges facing salmon and salmon-dependent societies in the 21st century.  This course is available online to anyone in the world. 

 

This course has the following objectives for student learning:

• To develop a thorough understanding of the complexity and interconnected nature of salmon ecosystems and salmon-dependent societies;

• To critically consider and synthesize diverse opinions on salmon-related issues;

• To foster each student’s own informed views of complex salmon-related issues;

• To clearly express those views in writing and in dialogue with guest experts and peers.

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