What is WyoPanama?
WyoPanama is a multi-week January-term course at the University of Wyoming that introduces students to the ecological culture of Panama and gives participants practical experience conducting tropical ecology research (focused primarily on animals). In the preceding Fall term, students meet to discuss ideas and develop original research projects (in line with individual interests), which students will complete during the course. Projects could transition into independent projects in later terms. Some WyoPanama students are currently preparing their research for publication in peer-reviewed and public-facing outlets.
The second component of the course examines Panama’s ecological culture, including the ecological impact of the Panama Canal expansion (with visits to the Canal locks, a local zoo, the old city of Panama, an indigenous village, and to local restaurants). Days will be spent primarily in the forest collecting data or visiting ecologically-relevant sites. Evening activities will include discussions with local, well-known scientists affiliated with local organizations and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.
The second component of the course examines Panama’s ecological culture, including the ecological impact of the Panama Canal expansion (with visits to the Canal locks, a local zoo, the old city of Panama, an indigenous village, and to local restaurants). Days will be spent primarily in the forest collecting data or visiting ecologically-relevant sites. Evening activities will include discussions with local, well-known scientists affiliated with local organizations and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute.