Engaging in dialogue and conversation is a great way to learn. Which is why, this semester, TED Fellow Jessica Green is teaching a Biodiversity class this semester at the University of Oregon, and her students are starting great TED Conversations around topics that come up in class. And you are welcome to join!

How does affluence influence biodiversity?  — asks Drew Thompson, inviting you to discuss the role of affluent societies in environmental harm. Sudni Rucks, also a student, challenges us to think and talk about the ecosystems we use: What are ecosystem services that you rely on everyday? Are you willing to pay for them?

These conversations run for one week and new ones will be posted every Monday and Wednesday every week until early June.

This is the second time that Jessica Green has involved TEDinClass Conversations in her class. Find more student-run conversations from Jessica Green’s previous course on Population Biology. We asked Jessica about her motivations in using TED Conversations to teach:

“University of Oregon students motivate me. The students in my Population Ecology this year are exceptionally gifted. Inspired by TED Fellow Nina Tandon’s experience, I brought the option of initiating TED Conversations to my classroom. The students have embraced the process wholeheartedly. It is clear that individuals and groups are the most creative when they take ownership over the learning process. I am motivated to continue teaching in ways that serve our continually evolving student needs. I think the students are slowly getting the hang of things — and they are getting VERY excited! This is so special for the students! I have never seen students this engaged. WOW. I’m inspired as a teacher.”

New Conversations from Biodiversity class can be accessed through special tags: TEDinClass, TEDinClassroom, Biodiversity class, or simply by visiting this page:
http://www.ted.com/conversations/topics/Biodiversity+class

All of the TEDinClass conversations so far can be found here >>