SOUNDSCAPE ECOLOGY

Course Description

What is the role of sound in nature? How are sounds produced, transported, received, and interpreted? What are the consequences of human impacts on the natural soundscape? In this seminar-style course open to all majors we will explore the ecology of sounds in nature, as an introduction to the science of "Soundscape Ecology." We will read recent scientific articles and book chapters, and hear from guest speakers, who will discuss the relevance of sound to their research. We will also spend time outdoors to observe sounds in different environments. Although the focus will be on biological and ecological aspects of sound in nature, students will benefit from the interdisciplinary approach, bringing their knowledge and backgrounds - music, literature, art, physics, math, etc. - to our observations of sounds heard in various natural and human-dominated settings.

All majors welcome - no prior experience required!

Normative number of units awarded for the class is 2, with the option of an additional unit awarded for a research project in area of student's interest.