Week 1: Introduction to Coral Reef Ecology and Monitoring
- Coral reef biodiversity, structure, and resilience.
- Ecological roles of key species and interactions within the reef ecosystem.
- Anthropogenic threats to coral reefs and conservation challenges.
- Benthic surveys: Identifying indicator species and assessing reef health.
- Fish Surveys: Identifying indicator species and assessing population/diversity.
Week 2: Advanced Monitoring Techniques
- Identification and monitoring of coral disease, coral bleaching, and invasive species.
- Introduction to photogrammetry and 3D modeling of coral reefs using underwater cameras and Agisoft Metashape software.
- Data collection protocols and fieldwork safety.
Week 3: Data Collection and Fieldwork continued
- Practical application of photogrammetry and benthic surveys at selected reef sites.
- Further practice with advanced surveys (coral disease, coral bleaching, invasive species)
- Data management and organization
- Using software tools to process and analyze 3D models and survey data.
- Interpretation of findings and identification of potential stressors.
Week 4: Independent Research Project – Part 1
- Formulating research questions and objectives for the independent project.
- Designing methodologies and planning data collection strategies.
- Preparation of introduction and methodologies section of a manuscript
- Begin data collection.
Week 5: Independent Research Project – Part 2
- Conducting fieldwork and data collection for the independent research project.
- Regular meetings with mentors to discuss progress and challenges.
- Begin data analysis and interpretation.
Week 6: Independent Research Project – Part 3
- Finalize data analysis and interpretation for the independent project.
- Drawing conclusions and identifying implications for coral reef conservation.
- Preparing a comprehensive research presentation documenting the independent project.
- Presenting research findings to peers, mentors, and stakeholders.
Evaluation and Certification:
Interns will be evaluated based on their performance in fieldwork, data collection, data analysis, and the quality of their independent research project and manuscript. Upon successful completion, interns will receive the Conservation Diver Advanced Ecological Monitoring Certification from Ocean Alliance Project, recognizing their dedication to marine conservation research.
Note: The syllabus is subject to minor adjustments to accommodate unforeseen opportunities for learning and research.