ESA Meeting Logo

93^rd ESA Annual Meeting

August 3, 2008 - August 8, 2008

Enhancing Ecological Thought by Linking Research and Education

Modern biology has become highly interdisciplinary, with new insights arising from consideration of connections within and between biotic systems at multiple scales. Ecologists regularly consider processes from the genomic level to those at planetary scales in order to elucidate interactions within natural systems. The educational challenges arising from the diverse scales and disciplines impinging on ecology provide a theme for this meeting. These challenges vary from those focused on public understanding of complex issues such as global-change, to one-on-one mentoring of students who may feel overwhelmed by the volume of material in even sub-fields of ecology.

How do we transmit our enhanced understanding while acknowledging the inherent complexities of the biota and associated limitations on our ability to provide precise predictions? This gathering will illustrate instances in which research endeavors benefited from careful attention to public policy concerns, outreach and educational activities.

This highlights our continuing attempts to relate research to policy and management and to communicate effectively the implications of our research.

Opportunities exist for enterprising students at all levels to carry out fascinating ecological research. Incorporating interdisciplinary concepts is central to both public understanding of ecology and our ability to educate the ecologists of the future. This gathering will illustrate how effective collaborations are developed amongst the numerous disciplines related to ecology. Milwaukee, Wisconsin, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, offers many opportunities to explore this theme. Milwaukee is a hub of both academic research institutions and public environmental science and outreach centers, including the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Public Museum, the Urban Ecology Center, the Milwaukee County Zoo, and the new Discovery World and Pier Wisconsin. There is a strong tradition of public-private partnerships, and the need for interdisciplinary research and outreach is exemplified in Great Lakes management. Research on large lake systems requires linkages between the physical, chemical and biological sciences, spanning processes from the molecular to the ecosystem, with impacts at several scales of human activity. The public is acutely aware of ecological issues related to Lake Michigan, providing opportunities for this gathering to enhance public education and outreach.

Web site: http://www.esa.org/milwaukee/

Event Contact:

---

Return to the Southern Research Station Homepage