The anthropocene is a name for the current geological era marked by human activity. Through the lens of comparative psychology (animal behavior and cognition), this program will examine a range of human/animal interactions and animal/environment interactions that are changing as we move through the anthropocene.
We will begin with exploring our connection with animals and history with natural words. We will also focus on animal sensory systems to better understand how animals experience their words. And, we will examine how human-produced noise (traffic, sonar, etc.) affects animal communication, the impact of light pollution and landfills, and how habitat fragmentation is causing animals to either adapt to new urban environments or perish.
Our learning objectives for the program are to use studies of human/non-human animal interfaces to develop analytical frames, raise ethical questions, consider new directions, and create meaningful applications for our learning. We will offer workshops to develop writing and communication skills. Learning modalities will include: lecture, examining readings, films, and other resources together; seminar discussion; and student-led projects.
Winter Anticipated Credit Equivalencies
4 - Comparative Psychology & Our Changing Environment
4 - Research Project: "Name of student research project"
4 - Psychology Seminar: Exploring research literature in comparative cognition
4 - Career Exploration in Psychology
Registration
Academic Details
psychology, zoology