Students will investigate the acoustic world of marine animals in relation to their biology of sound production and hearing, natural behavior, and ecology.
•We will use a ‘hands-on’ approach in the lab to learn about the construction of simple acoustic transducers and digital recording of marine sounds. Each student (with the help of the instructors) will build their own hydrophone for use in student projects and exercises.
•Students will be introduced to both foundational and contemporary theories of underwater acoustics (including the theory and application of pressure and particle motion in acoustical waves, and Fourier Analysis). They will become familiar with modern techniques in bioacoustic recordings and analysis that include tank-based and field-based acoustical measurements.
•Students will learn basic auditory physiology techniques used in hearing studies, such as auditory evoked potential recordings. They will also learn to use LabView software for the fully automated production, recording and analysis of acoustical signals.
•A significant portion of the course will involve independent research projects where students apply the scientific method to address problems in marine animal bioacoustic behavior.