Course descriptions
Scientific Diving
MSL 420
Course Description
Completion of this course will allow students to be eligible to join the UAF (AAUS) dive program. This will allow students to dive on UAF sanctioned diving projects and have reciprocity to dive with other universities and government agencies. The course will introduce and familiarize students to SCUBA diving techniques commonly used in the research community. The course also will familiarize students with local Alaskan subtidal flora and fauna and give students an opportunity to work underwater. After several check-out dives for specific skills, the students will assist with diving projects being conducted by the Advanced Scientific Diving students at the Kastisna Bay Lab. This course also will certify students with a Research Diver Specialty (PADI), Dry Suit Specialty (PADI), CPR and First Aid (Red Cross) and Emergency Oxygen Administration (DAN).
Prerequisite
- open water diver
Advanced Scientific Diving
MSL 421
Course Description
Students in this course will propose a hypothesis that they will experimentally test during a one-week field trip to the Kasitsna Bay Lab. Associated with their hypothesis, they will develop a proposal, dive plan, and materials list. The proposal will be defended in front of the class prior to starting their fieldwork. After completing the fieldwork, they will present their findings to the class.
Prerequisites
- Scientific Diving
- basic biology/ecology
Kelp Forest Ecology
MSL 656
Course Description
This four-week class will emphasize the existing knowledge, hypotheses, and disputes regarding kelp forest ecology. A strong focus will be on the ecological interactions that influence kelp forest structure and dynamics. During the class, students will critically read published literature and will learn local Alaska subtidal flora and fauna. Students will be given an opportunity to work underwater by conducting their own ecological research including: formulating questions, collecting and analyzing ecological data, writing reports based on such data, and giving and receiving critical feedback. This course takes place at the Kasitsna Bay Lab.
Prerequisites
- College course in Biology or ecology
- Current Open Water Diver
- Current American Academy of Underwater Sciences Scientific Diver