Course Outcome Summary 2026-27

BIOL 215 General Ecology

Course Information

Course information
Course Number BIOL 215
Course Title General Ecology
Description This course examines interrelationships between organisms and their environment, with an emphasis on population, community and ecosystem dynamics. Ecological research methods are applied through hands-on activities in lab and in the field. While basic ecology is the focus, relationships between ecological research and current environmental issues will also be addressed. This course includes outdoor data collection and off-campus field trips. MNTC Goal Areas 3 and 10. (Prerequisites: BIOL 116).
Total Credits 4
Total Hours 96
Types of Instruction: instruction type, credits, and hours
Instruction Type Credits and Hours
Lecture 3 Credits, 72 Hours
Lab 1 Credit, 24 Hours

Pre/Corequisites

Prerequisite: BIOL 116

Institutional Core Competencies

Course Competencies

  1. Explain the parameters of science and scientific inquiry
  2. Engage in the process of scientific inquiry to conduct ecological research
  3. Incorporate information from primary literature into writing
  4. Describe the conceptual foundations and scope of ecology
  5. Examine the relationship between ecology and evolution
  6. Differentiate between various terrestrial biomes
  7. Describe the key properties of ecosystems
  8. Describe the flow and transformation of energy through ecosystems
  9. Illustrate pathways of nutrient cycling in an ecosystem
  10. Describe the key properties of communities
  11. Examine biodiversity and the implications of biodiversity loss
  12. Analyze the different types of interspecies interactions
  13. Describe the ecological niche concept
  14. Describe the key properties of populations
  15. Assess the impact of human activity on communities and ecosystems
  16. Demonstrate safe laboratory practices

SCC Accessibility Statement

South Central College strives to make all learning experiences as accessible as possible. If you have a disability and need accommodations for access to this class, contact the Academic Support Center to request and discuss accommodations.

North Mankato: Room B-132, (507) 389-7222; Faribault: Room A-116, (507) 332-7222.

Additional information and forms can be found at: southcentral.edu/disability

This material can be made available in alternative formats by contacting the Academic Support Center at 507-389-7222.