Full course description
Course summary:
Many designated wilderness areas contain paleontological resources. Managing these resources is different in a wilderness setting than in non-wilderness. This course, the first in the Paleontological Resources Management in Wilderness series, focuses on the basics of managing paleontological resources found in wilderness. Topics include defining paleontological resources, law and policy, and paleontological resource stewardship.
While their presence is not a requirement, many designated wilderness areas contain paleontological resources. Managing these resources is different in a wilderness setting than in non-wilderness. Fundamentals of Managing Paleontological Resources in Wilderness thoroughly explains these differences and provides tools for agency employees to manage these resources more effectively.
Course objectives:
After completing this course, learners should be able to:
- Define paleontological resources.
- Identify types of paleontological resources.
- Explain how paleontological resources are part of the wilderness character of your area, if applicable.
- Articulate issues surrounding the management of paleontological resources in wilderness.
- Apply the Stewardship Model of managing paleontological resources in wilderness.
Course creators:
This course was designed and developed jointly by the Arthur Carhart Wilderness Training Center and the Eppley Center for Parks and Public Lands at Indiana University.
Course topics include:
- Introduction to Paleontological Resources
- Law and Policy
- Wilderness Character and Paleontology
- Stewardship Model
Elements of the course:
- Informational text
- Interactive practice activities
- Supplemental reference materials
- Final assessment
This course is self-paced, allowing learners the flexibility to complete the course as quickly or slowly as they need.
After completing all course content and activities, you will complete a final quiz to demonstrate your understanding of key course concepts. Upon successful completion of the quiz, you will be awarded a certificate of completion.
Recommended background:
It is strongly recommended that you complete the free The Wilderness Act of 1964 course before beginning this course. Without foundational knowledge of the Wilderness Act, you will not be able to get the most out of this course and could find the content confusing. The Minimum Requirements Analysis courses are also strongly recommended.
How to access:
Upon enrolling, you will receive instructions and the link to the Canvas course. Note: When you register, you will receive an email invitation. Be sure to accept that invitation, or Canvas will not allow you to open the course modules.
Enrollees can move through content modules at their own pace within the course timeframe.