Course Info

Course Format

iSCB combine lectures, readings and discussions, laboratory exercises, student presentations and field trips to give students a rich experience in an intensive, short-course format. Following the common, relaxed classroom model, students are encouraged to ask questions openly and to actively participate in discussion. The course ran for 9 days, including 2.5 days of field excursions.

In-class lectures: 25 hours
Guest lectures and discussions: 10 hours
Laboratory exercises: 15 hours
Readings and Discussion of primary literature: 10-15 hours
Preparation of student presentations: 10-15 hours
Field course activities: 15-20 hours

Students who fulfill all requirements receive a certificate and 7 ECTS credits towards their university degree.

Course materials

Lecture notes, reading materials, and computer programs will be provided.

Computer labs

Most computer-based activities will be in Excel spreadsheets. Other software will be provided. Students will work in teams of 2 or 3; computers will be available, but you are encouraged to bring a laptop if you have one. Experience with Excel is beneficial, but students are not expected to have extensive mathematical or statistical skills.

Group Projects

Students will work in small groups on a paper and presentation on a conservation issue of their choice, approved by iSCB instructors. Group projects represent a form of the final exam, and will use the following outline:

  • Problem Identification
  • Inventory of available information
  • Identification of affected groups, perceptions and opinions
  • Conservation options
  • Research and Monitoring Plan
  • Assessment
  • Expected results and impacts.
Presentations are given to the class on the final day of the lecture course.

Daily Schedule

0900-0930 Discussion of mandatory readings
0930-1100 Lecture
1100-1130 Coffee Break
1130-1300 Computer lab
1300-1500 Lunch Break
1500-1700 Lecture
1700-1730 Coffee Break
1730-1900 Time to work on Group Projects
2100-2230 Evening Lecture given by guest speaker