Program Overview

Program Overview

The Observing Animals: Behavioral Studies in Zoos course introduces methods and techniques of studying animal behavior. Topics include techniques of organizing and collecting data and accurately assessing and describing behavior. This course takes place at the LA Zoo.

Course Details

Course Description

The successful study of the behavior of animals, whether in zoos or their natural environments, requires organized functional methods of description and data collection (as well as dedication and patience) in order to yield meaningful and useful results. This course provides an introduction to these methods and techniques of studying the behavior of animals without experimental manipulation.

Course Objectives

• Yield meaningful and useful results in the study of animal behavior
• Organize and collect numerical data
• Produce accurate descriptions of behavior
• Learn to recognize various components, categories, and contexts of behavior
• Minimize artifacts and errors in studies

Course Structure

Instruction emphasizes practical firsthand application of such techniques to behavioral problems and studies. In addition to lectures and demonstrations, participants conduct a study project on selected species at the Los Angeles Zoo.

Course Information

• Course Code: BIOLGY X 480.31
• Location: LA Zoo
• Availability: Not available this quarter