▎TEACHING & LEARNING

At the heart of the Master's Program in Biodiversity (MPB) lies the "Biodiversity Workshop," a comprehensive course led by Assistant Prof. Chun-Chia Chou. This dynamic class is designed to cultivate both theoretical understanding and practical skills in the realm of biodiversity conservation management.

The course focuses on fundamental ecological surveys, monitoring techniques, the application of survey data in the scientific decision-making process, and resolving conflicts at conservation sites. Students embark on field visits to diverse conservation experimental sites, including the National Museum of Natural Science, the Research Center for Biodiversity at Academia Sinica, zoos, botanical gardens, and more. Through these experiences and the guidance of experts, students acquire hands-on proficiency in field survey techniques such as population estimation of intertidal zone animals, composition analysis of forest-mammal assemblages, terrestrial turtle tracking, and other essential skills.

Wildlife conservation extends beyond the expertise of conservationists, and effective communication with different stakeholders is crucial. To reach a consensus, it is integral to have the participation and support of local communities. A researcher from Research Center for Biodiversity, Academia Sinica was invited as a guest speaker to share on the topic of leopard cat conservation. Students learned how to leverage research data to assist farm owners in constructing protective fences to minimize the use of traps. This method prevents leopard cats from preying on livestock while conserving the leopard cat population, successfully addressing the conflict.

Taking the learning experience beyond the classroom, students engaged with local fruit farmers in leopard cat-friendly orchards and farmland in Nantou County. These interactions provided valuable insights into the conservation process and fostered an understanding of the delicate balance between conservation goals and local interests. Through practical fieldwork and the guidance of research experts, students gain a wealth of firsthand experience, preparing them to make meaningful contributions to the field of biodiversity conservation.