1181 | 980 | Fieldwork in the Tropical Forests of the Ecuadorian Amazon by Earth Sciences Faculty Students from Mediterranean Countries: A Project Based on Two Public Universities of Barcelona | Gemma Díaz-Martínez, Carles Barriocanal, Cristina Durà-Lahoz, Abril Rochet
Two public universities of Barcelona (UB and UAB), Spain, are providing their students with the opportunity to gain field experience in a scientific station operated by a university in Ecuador (PUCE, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Ecuador) and located in the rain forest ecosystem. This type of experience is valuable for students, especially those studying earth sciences, as it allows them to study and understand different ecosystems, cultures, and societies outside of their immediate vicinity. By spending time in the scientific station, students can gain a better understanding of the characteristics of the rainforest territory, including its social, cultural, economic, and environmental aspects. This type of first-hand experience can help students to better grasp the theoretical knowledge they have learned in the classroom and apply it to real-world situations. Students can develop their degree and master thesis projects in the scientific station. This provides them with a unique opportunity to conduct research in a different ecosystem, which can broaden their perspectives and understanding of the field. Additionally, it allows them to work with a diverse group of people, including local researchers and students from other universities. Overall, providing students with the opportunity to gain field experience in a different ecosystem is a valuable part of their education. It allows them to expand their knowledge, gain new perspectives, and develop important skills that will serve them well in their future careers. We present the diversity of topics studied during the period 2014-2022 that highlights the wide range of interests and research opportunities available to students at the scientific station. By studying different aspects of the biological and cultural diversity of the territory, students can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between humans and their environments.
Gemma Díaz-Martínez, Carles Barriocanal, Cristina Durà-Lahoz, Abril Rochet
Universitat de Barcelona
ID Abstract: 980