Undergraduate and Graduate Courses
Principles of Ecology (BIOL 351/451)
This course focuses on spatial and temporal relationships involving organisms and the environment at individual, population, and community levels. The instructors are Paul Drewa, Assistant Professor, Department of Biology, and Ana B. Locci, University Farm Director and Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Biology.
Introduction to Ecology and Field Biology (BIOL 352)
This course is an introduction to the methods used to study the interactions that determine the abundance and distribution of organisms. Heavy emphasis is placed on experimentation and data collection in the field to investigate a diversity of terrestrial and aquatic habitats at University Farm. The instructor for this course is James Bader, Lecturer, Department of Biology and Director of the Center for Science and Mathematical Education.
Aquatic Biology Lab (BIOL 339)
This course combines both field and laboratory analyses to characterize and compare the major components of the University Farm's ponds. The instructor for this course is James Bader, Lecturer, Department of Biology, and Director of the Center for Science and Mathematical Education.
This course explores sculptural/architectural possibilities within three environmental realms: the natural, urban, and social/communal. The definition and application of sculpture and architecture may vary dramatically from project to project, where the boundary between sculpture and architecture may be blurred. An emphasis on ecological awareness is maintained, as it relates to environmental impact of structures in the landscape, as well as the materials and pathway of construction. The course is cross-listed with the Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA). The course instructor is Erik Neff, CIA Adjunct Instructor.
Raku Ceramic Workshop (ARTS 399 and ARTS 602)
The Raku Ceramic Workshop is a two-week course held during the month of June at Valley Ridge Farm. The course explores the properties of clay, experimental hand-building forming techniques, and the Raku firing process. Art projects include ceramic vessels, sculpture, and masks. The instructor for this course is Tim Shuckerow, Director of the Art Education Program.
The academy takes place at the farm each August and is taught
by the faculty at Case Frances Payne Bolton School of Nursing
and MetroHealth physicians and staff. Topics of study include "Assessment and Triage," "Biologic, Chemical
& Radiation Hazards," and "Preparing Patients for
Transport." The farm provides the site for simulated
rescues and recoveries from staged car accidents, and facilitates helicopter rescues.