Course Information

Learning Outcomes:

Evaluate the contrasting opinions about Colony Collapse Disorder.
Explain the reasons that the bees may be leaving their habitats and/or dying.
Assess the ways that the Varroa Mite, other pests, and illness may be controlled.
Explain how Colony Collapse Disorder may affect the world’s food supply and overall environment.
Compare the solutions that commercial beekeepers and companies are using to try to solve the problem.
Support the perspective that they agree with using research and scientific evidence
Recommend simple and meaningful solutions that communities can participate in to support the health of the honeybee population

Purpose of Course:

The purpose of this course is to present the issue of Colony Collapse Disorder. There are differing thoughts on this topic. Some people believe that due to a sudden drop in the numbers of honeybees since 2006 that honeybees are becoming extinct and that the world will lose a huge portion of our food supply. Others acknowledge the decrease in honeybees; however, believe that this is a normal occurrence that has happened from time to time throughout the history of the earth.

Through exploration of these viewpoints, you will be able to construct your own thoughts and perspectives about how this issue may affect our world and our lives. Enjoy the journey of exploration!

Course Activities:

Initial Survey: Begin the course by taking the Initial Survey to assess your level of knowledge on Colony Collapse Disorder.
Themes & Perspectives: Take time to explore the content of this course. You will be presented with viewpoints from beekeepers, scientists, environmental activists, and additional editorial opinions. There is also a section that shows what the government is doing about this issue. Evaluating this information will help you to understand the issue and to develop your own perspective.
Discussion Board: This area will allow you to participate in online discussion topics with other students and with local beekeepers to discuss the issues. There will be a question posted each week for you to reflect on and respond to. Please also contribute to 2 posts from your class members.
Final Survey: At the end of the course, please take the Final Survey. This will allow you to evaluate how much you have learned about the facts of Colony Collapse Disorder throughout the course.
Final Reflection: At the end of the course, you will have the opportunity to visit the apiaries that are run by The Honeybee Initiative at George Mason University. Following that trip, you will write a reflective blog about your perspective on Colony Collapse Disorder and about the ways that you can encourage your community to participate in simple activities to promote the health of the honeybee population.

Resources:

Under the Resource tab, you will find links to movie trailers and videos that can provide additional insights into this issue. There are also links to organizations that are involved in supporting this cause. You can also find ways to help within your community and see ways that corporations are helping.