If you reflect on what we have done in class so far, we have created a comprehensive picture of what Zoology is through our concept maps, and we have explored two methods of conducting research in Zoology--laboratory studies and field studies. On Thursday you came up with your own question about guppies or hermit crabs, designed a laboratory experiment that could help you answer that question, and then decided upon an answer to that question. On Friday, you came up with your own question having to do with the animals found in the pond ecosystem adjoining campus, and you also began conducting field research in an attempt to answer that question. |
First, I would like for you to reflect upon your experiences as a zoologist on each of these two days by comparing and contrasting the different methods you used to answer your research questions. Then, I would like for you to bring together these two experiences and describe what it means to be a zoologist.
You might want to consider the following questions as you respond to the prompt:
Due: Wednesday, September 3, 2015
You might want to consider the following questions as you respond to the prompt:
- What was the question you asked on Thursday in the lab, and how did you answer it?
- What aspects of your experimental design would you have had to modify if you attempted to answer your question on Thursday in the field?
- What was the question you asked on Friday in the field, and how did you answer it?
- What aspects of your experimental design would you have had to modify if you attempted to answer your question on Friday in the lab?
- How are these two methods for conducting research in zoology similar to each other?
Due: Wednesday, September 3, 2015