Field Botany

Learn to identify common Ohio plants and explore their diversity in this immersive, outdoor-focused course. Designed for students of all experience levels, this course fosters a deeper appreciation for plant life and field-based biological research.

Course Highlights:

• Extensive fieldwork at the Bath Nature Preserve, Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and other natural areas.
• Hands-on experience with plant identification, collection, and preservation.
• Use of dichotomous keys and digital tools for plant identification.
• Exploration of plants used for food, fiber, medicine, and aesthetics.

Learning Objectives

1. Identify Common Ohio Plants – Recognize and classify a variety of native and introduced plant species.
2. Explore Plant Diversity – Describe the ecological roles, adaptations, and evolutionary relationships of different plant species.
3. Develop a Personal Plant Collection – Collect, document, and care for plant specimens following best practices in field botany.
4. Use Dichotomous Keys – Apply dichotomous keys to accurately identify plants based on morphological characteristics.
5. Utilize Digital Tools for Plant Identification – Leverage mobile apps, online databases, and other digital resources.
6. Develop Field Biology Skills – Conduct field observations, record ecological data, and apply scientific methods.
7. Engage in Experiential Learning – Gain hands-on experience through fieldwork at designated natural areas.
8. Examine the Importance of Plants – Understand their ecological, economic, and cultural significance.
9. Demonstrate Outdoor Fieldwork Proficiency – Navigate and work effectively in natural environments while practicing responsible stewardship.
10. Communicate Botanical Knowledge – Share findings through written, visual, and oral presentations.

When?

DATES: June 9–July 13, 2025
MEETS: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 1:00 pm–4:30 pm
LOCATION: The University of Akron Field Station (Bath Nature Preserve, 4240 Ira Road, Akron, OH 44333)
INSTRUCTOR: Dr. Randy Mitchell
FEE: $595

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About Your Instructor

Dr. Randy Mitchell

Distinguished Professor of Biology, University of Akron
PhD in Biology (UC Riverside), MS in Biology (UC Riverside), BS in Entomology (UC Davis).
Dr. Mitchell teaches courses in Entomology, Bee Biology, Field Ecology, Wetland Ecology, and many other field-oriented subjects. He has extensive research experience in ecology and natural history in Northeastern Ohio.