The course is divided into three sessions: pre-trip trip post-trip

1. Pre-trip Session This session will consist of assignments using the course web site. These assignments will focus on background information on Costa Rica, its ecosystems, and impacts on biodiversity.

2. Trip Session This session will include visits to the following locations: Palo Verde National Park Santa Rosa National Park Arenal Volcano La Fortuna Waterfall Lake Arenal Monteverde Cloudforest Reserve Baldi Hot Springs Tortuguero National Park Braulio Carillo National Park Cahuita National Marine Reserve Poás Volcano Sarchí Market Corcovado National Park

Several evening programs will be presented while on the trip. The following topics will be discussed: Mechanisms of Evolution Biogeography Biodiversity and speciation Rainforest structure and stability Importance of biodiversity and threats

3. Post-trip Session Submission of final reports and assignments will occur during this session.