Synopsis of course content
The Coral Reef Ecology course at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences is an integrated course comprised of lectures, required reading, laboratory exercises and field surveys. The lectures cover a broad range of relevant topics in coral reef ecology that are supplemented by readings from the primary literature with attention given to active areas of research. Basic marine ecological principles are taught using coral reef examples. Various field techniques using SCUBA and snorkeling, and subsequent lab analyses, are taught and used repetitively at different coral reef sites so that comparative data can be collected in order to investigate the ecology of each reef habitat. The laboratory and field work are synthesized in written laboratory reports as well as a final oral presentation. Both are based on a typical format for presenting scientific results to an audience and so are designed to provide experience in communicating science.

Prerequisites
Introductory Ecology
SCUBA certification is recommended before the course.
Snorkeling ability is REQUIRED.

Assignments
Weekly readings from the primary scientific literature.

Reading Material
Selected readings from the primary literature are provided.

Exams
One mid-term and a final examination.

Term Papers
Two short laboratory reports throughout the course. A group oral presentation and written abstract at the end of the term on one of the components of the field work.

Grade to be based on
exams (50%)
Problem set (5%)
lab reports (25%)
oral presentation (15%)
Overall participation (5%)