HC301H - Backyard Soundscapes (Spring/2024)

Professor: Lisa Munger

4.00 credits

  • CRN 34944: Tuesday & Thursday, 2:00-3:20pm @ CHA 201

Sound is an essential component of natural habitats, and it is critical to the survival of many organisms. This course will introduce you to the emerging field of acoustic ecology (“eco-acoustics”). We will explore the role of sound in terrestrial and marine ecosystems via lecture, readings, discussion, and activities. You will work in teams of 3-4 to design and conduct a term-long research project in your “backyard” (i.e., somewhere that is easily accessible) using inexpensive recording equipment that works with your smartphone and free acoustics software. You will communicate about your learning and research project via written assignments, oral presentations, and other formats.