User: | Open Learning Faculty Member:
Conducting my field project did present a number of challenges, but none of them were insurmountable. As my project progressed and I researched relevant literature, I broadened my hypotheses. Originally, I was focussed on competition but as I did more reading, the importance of facilitation within forested communities became part of my study. This feels like valuable knowledge and I’m already looking at forests and plants in a different light.
There were no issues with implementing the project, although I did try both randomized and strategic experimental designs before settling on a strategic one.
Certainly engaging in practicing ecology has increased my appreciation for it. One thing that struck me was how challenging it must be for ecologists to relate the significance of their findings to resource planners, managers, the public, and policy makers. Obviously there is a big disconnect here or our policies would be better aligned with the alterations to the planet’s ecosystems that are occuring.
Overall an excellent and well-designed course. Now I just have to get the last few pages of my final report finished up!
