Students completing this course will be able to:

1. Explain and critically discuss the basic theoretical
principles of landscape ecology.

2. Identify key landscape pattern elements such as patches, 
matrix, corridors, and networks.

3. Explain and critically discuss the effects of landscape 
pattern on a variety of ecological responses.

4. Utilize the basic tools of landscape ecology research, 
including geographic information systems (ARCGIS, ARCVIEW),
spatial simulation models (LANDIS, HARVEST), and software for
generating landscape metrics (APACK, FRAGSTATS).

5. Apply landscape ecology concepts and tools in the development
of natural resource management and conservation plans.

1. Introduction - what defines landscape ecology?

2. Fundamental theory
    A. Grain and extent
    B. Hierarchy
    C. Incorporation
    D. Neutral models and percolation theory

3. Ecological implications of landscape pattern
    A. Basic elements - patches, matrix, corridors, etc.
    B. Edge versus interior habitat
    C. Dispersal and connectivity
    D. Disturbance spread
    E. Island biogeogrpahy    
    F. Links with aquatic systems

4. Drivers of landscape pattern
    A. Environmental heterogeneity
    B. Disturbance history
    C. Biotic interactions
    D. Human land use

5. Mapping and measuring landscape pattern
    A. Remote sensing
    B. Predictive vegetation mapping
    C. Landscape metrics
    D. Spatial statistics
    E. Effects of changing grain and extent

6. Landscape dynamics - patterns in space and time
    A. Land use change
    B. Natural disturbances - fire, wind, disease, etc.
    C. Timber harvesting

7. Method in landscape ecology
    A. Types of research questions
    B. Theoretical, observational, and experimental approaches
    C. Sources of landscape-scale data
    D. Applications of analytical techniques
    F. Development and use of landscape models

8. Applications of landscape ecology
    A. Comparing forest management scenarios
    B. Designing ecological reserves
    C. Developing species conservation plans
    D. Ecological indicators

All academic work must meet the standards contained in “A 
Culture
of Honesty.” Students are responsible for informing themselves
about those standards before performing any academic work.

Links to more detailed information about academic honesty can be
found at these sites:

	http://www.uga.edu/ovpi/honesty/acadhon.htm
	http://www.uga.edu/honesty/ahpd/culture_honesty.htm

Students are expected to conduct themselves at all times in 
accordance with the University Academic Honesty Policy. 
Students 
are free to discuss assignments, but all written work that is 
turned in must be completed independently.