The Galapagos Expedition: A 24-hour hands-on learning experience

The Galapagos Islands are like no other place on earth. Their unique plant and animal species figured prominently in Darwin’s development of the theory of evolution, and they continue to offer an unmatched setting for studying biology and related sciences.

            During the 2006 winter break, 11 biology and biotechnology students had the opportunity to experience the islands for themselves. They joined Assistant Professor of Biology Guillermo Paz-y-Mino C., Ph.D. on a ten-day, two- to four-credit expedition that involved intensive research into topics including geology, biodiversity, and evolution. They were also introduced to Ecuadorian history and culture and enjoyed hiking and snorkeling in an area of unparalleled beauty.

A collection of photos from the recent Expedition to the Galapagos can be seen at:  http://www.pbase.com/worcesterstatecollege/galapagos

            The expedition, the first of its kind offered at the College, was developed by Dr. Paz-y-Mino C. as a way to strengthen his students’ foundation in the natural sciences. He explains, “The Galapagos are a natural laboratory where visitors can learn more in a week than in an entire semester of classes. I have been there numerous times, and every new visit is unique. It is hard to believe there is a place like that, so beautiful, so wild.”

            The journey began with a visit to the home of world-renowned naturalist and artist Juan Manuel Carrion in Quito, Ecuador’s capital located on the Equator high in the Andes. Students received an overview of the country’s rich biodiversity, followed by a tour of the 500-year-old colonial section of the city.

Wendie Stewart ’06, a biology major, recalls, “I was dumbfounded by the amazing churches and well-preserved architecture. It was breathtaking.”

The next day, they boarded the Santa Cruz, a floating expedition vessel and classroom that took them on the route followed by Charles Darwin in 1835.  The trip, like all visits to the islands, followed strict guidelines established to protect the delicate natural environment. “Expert naturalists provided environmental interpretations in a series of lectures,” says Dr. Paz-y-Mino C. “Students conducted observational research projects and behavioral quantitative analyses, and made formal oral presentations.”

Kim Paquette ’06, a biotechnology major, notes, “The islands almost made you feel like you were stepping back in time. There are no humans on the majority of the islands, just animals and wildlife. It’s their turf.”