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Abstract
The technique of distance sampling is widely used to monitor biological populations. This paper documents an in-class activity to introduce students to the concepts and the mechanics of distance sampling in a simple situation that is relevant to their own experiences. Preparation details are described. Variations and extensions to the activity are also suggested.
Acknowledgments
The author would like to thank Ann Cowling for recounting her experiences with distance sampling of southern blue-fin tuna in the Great Australian Bight; Alan Welsh for the general method and reference to Otto and Pollock; and Glenys Bishop for general discussions on in-class activities. She would also like to thank the students and tutors in the University of Canberra course The World of Chance, who since 2001 have cheerfully taken part in the distance sampling activity and suggested refinements to it. Finally, she thanks the referees and editor for their careful reading of the paper and their suggestions that have improved it.