Advances in Marine Research, Sustainable Oceans and Coastal Systems
Ecology Education Via Fish Sampling: Reflections on a Field- Based Experiential Learning
Abstract
Chee Kong Yap, Zackheus Anak Chengai, Mohammad Amirul Faiz Zulkiply, Heldino Hezrey Eldridge, Sayed Muhamad Daniel Sayed Shamsul Effendi, and Mohammad Noor Amal Azmai
Because it allows students to make connections between theoretical ideas and actual environmental observations, experiential learning is crucial to ecology education. This reflection article details a field-based fish sample exercise that three final-year undergraduate biology students participated in at Sungai Labu, Sepang, Selangor, Malaysia. Students obtained hands-on experience in freshwater ecology by active involvement in fish sampling, habitat assessment, species identification, and ecological debates. The exercise improved knowledge of invasive species, ecological relationships, habitat heterogeneity, biodiversity, and human impacts on river ecosystems. Additionally, students improved their critical thinking, teamwork, environmental awareness, and observational skills. The outdoor experience showed that one of the best ways to teach ecology is still through direct involvement with natural ecosystems. In addition to being a scientific exercise, fish sampling was used as a teaching tool to improve students’ understanding of freshwater biodiversity and ecological literacy. The study emphasizes how crucial experiential learning is to undergraduate biology education.