Each spreadsheet exercise provides a list of objectives, background material, and annotated step-by-step instructions (Windows and Macintosh) for creating a model on a given topic. Students then examine how various parameters affect model outcomes and, through a set of guided questions, are challenged to develop their model further. In the process, they become proficient with many of the functions available on most spreadsheet programs and learn to write and develop their own macros. This title can be used independently as the basis of a laboratory course, or can supplement a variety of texts. System requirements are Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet programs.

Table of Contents

PART I: SPREADSHEETS AND STATISTICS - Spreadsheet Hints and Tips - Mathematical Functions and Graphs - Spreadsheet Functions and Macros - Statistical Distributions - Central Limit Theorem - Hypothesis Testing: Alpha, Beta, and Power - Sampling Species Richness - PART II: CONSERVATION BIOLOGY - Geometric and Exponential Population Models - Island Biogeography - Life Tables and Survivorship Curves - Reproductive Value: Matrix Approach - Reproductive Value: Life Table Approach - Stage-Structured Matrix Models - Sensitivity and Elasticity Analysis - Metapopulation Dynamics - Source-Sink Dynamics - Population Estimation - Range Expansion - Adaptation - Hardy-Weinberg - Gene Flow and Population Structure - Measures of Genetic Diversity - Inbreeding and Outbreeding - Genetic Drift - Effective Population Size - Demographic Stochasticity - Population Viability Analysis - Logistic Population Growth - Harvest Models - PART III: LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY - Introduction to Landscape Ecology - Edge Effects - Prioritizing Species and Habitats - Designing Landscapes for Conservation - Neutral Landscapes and Connectivity - Random Walks - VBA Landscape Programming

Author Biography

THERESE M. DONOVAN, University of Vermont. - CHARLES W. WELDEN, Southern Oregon University.