This course offers a unique opportunity for students to gain a hands-on immersive educational experience in Uganda. The first part of the course will take place at the University of Illinois where we will meet over the course of the second 8 weeks in spring 2024. The 16 day field component will take place in Uganda. Students will visit the Jane Goodall Institute and the Chimpanzee Conservation and Wildlife Trust. We will then travel west to the Kibale Biological Research Station. Here, students will learn how to collect behavioral data on wild primates, quantify habitat characteristics, collect biological samples, use GPS units and analyze and summarize data in the form of a scientific report. At the end of the course, students will present their research findings. Practical components related to intercultural collaboration will be a major focus during field-based activities and field trips. We will also have an opportunity to visit the local schools, contribute to the establishment of a public library in the local village and meet with local economic and development stakeholders (KAFRED) and Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers to discuss conservation goals and local solutions. Some field components will involve field trips focused on the interface between human activities and the ecosystem. These will include visits to Queen Elizabeth National Park, where students will learn about other African wildlife such as lions, zebra and giraffe and the Bwindi mountain gorillas. Course dates are May 14-29, 2024