"I will argue that every scrap of biological diversity is priceless, to be learned and cherished, and never to be surrendered without a struggle."     Edward O. Wilson

"Biodiversity in all its forms can not be fully appreciated unless it is experienced firsthand at its extremes."

The purpose of this embedded international course for the spring semester 2010 is to immerse the participant, either a biology or science major, or a high school pre-service or in-service science teacher, in the biodiversity of select Costa Rican habitats using an experiential learning approach. The course will also focus on the conservation and research programs of selected non-governmental organizations (NGO's) including the Organization of Tropical Studies (La Selva), Carribbean Conservation Corporation (Tortuguero), and The Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute (Panama).

Special emphasis will be placed on how humans have impacted the biodiversity of the environments studied, and their sustainability. As an indirect benefit the student will also experience the biogeography, culture, politics, economics, and history of this region.

In her quest to explore and educate others about the biodiversity, biocomplexity, and need for preservation of our world biomes, Dr. Jacqueline McLaughlin, Associate Professor of Biology at Penn State University (Lehigh Valley), will lead this embedded field course in which participants can earn undergraduate or graduate credits (4), or high school teachers can gain professional development ACT 48 hours (120) or graduate credits (4) in environmental science and ecology.* Joining her in the filed will be Dr. Kathleen Fadigan, Assistant Professor of Science Education, Penn State Abington & Great Valley Campuses, who will provide expertise in teaching and learning methodologies, skills, and applications.