Ward's® Engage Population Ecology, IBL Case

In this inquiry-based learning case, students act as research assistants studying predator-prey population dynamics around the world, gaining an understanding of matter and energy transfers in ecosystems in the process.

Students will study predator-prey interactions in populations across the world to understand the underlying dynamics, and analyze the impact on matter and energy transfers in organisms and ecosytems, and resulting population and community fluctuations.

This inquiry-based learning (IBL) case is part of a series of lab activities developed in partnership with the Center of Excellence for Research, Teaching and Learning at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. It includes free access to a comprehensive professional development module available through Ward's to learn how to teach IBL cases. Cases can be tailored to your needs: cover from 2 to 3 class periods up to 7 to 10 class periods. Cases can also be customized to include all scenarios and deliverables, or jump straight to the hands-on activities; it's up to you!