
- UCAS course code
- C106
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Course unit details:
Ecology & Ecosystems
Unit code | BIOL21211 |
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Credit rating | 10 |
Unit level | Level 2 |
Teaching period(s) | Semester 1 |
Offered by | School of Biological Sciences |
Available as a free choice unit? | No |
Overview
Ecology and Ecosystems outlines the interactions at the population and community level that determine distribution and abundance of organisms.Through the study of key ecosystems and biomes, the methods and approaches used in the assessment, prediction (modelling) of population and community interactions and, ecosystem change will be explored. Ecosystems that you will study include; the freshwater ecosystem, the soil ecosystem, temperate forests and, tropical grasslands and savannas. Use will be made of case studies throughout the unit.
Pre/co-requisites
Recommended
EART 10602 Introduction to Ecology
Aims
To provide explain and describe: (i) the interactions that determine the distribution and abundance of organisms in the natural environment through the study of key ecosystems and biomes; (ii) the methods and approaches used in the assessment and prediction of population and community interactions and ecosystem change. (iii) human impact on the ecosystems and mitigation strategies.
Learning outcomes
Students will be able to:
• Explain the interactions at the species, population and community level that determine distribution and abundance of organisms through the study of key ecosystems and biomes;
• Describe the methods and approaches used in the assessment and prediction (modelling) of population and community interactions and ecosystem change.
• Examine key concepts from in-depth understanding of real-life context through the use of case studies
And will be able to:
• Justify the importance of descriptive, functional and evolutionary approaches in understanding how organisms interact with the biotic and abiotic environment;
• Demonstrate the importance of field and laboratory studies in testing ecological ideas.
Syllabus
eLearning Activity
• Introduction complemented by self-directed eLearning module to ensure all students have a basic knowledge and understanding of key concepts.
• Self-directed eLearning modules will accompany each component of the unit.
Employability skills
- Oral communication
- Students are expected to asked questions during lectures
- Problem solving
- e-learning questions include those that require problem solving
- Written communication
- Revision multiple-choice answers plus essay/short note questions during examination.
Assessment methods
Method | Weight |
---|---|
Other | 10% |
Written exam | 90% |
Feedback methods
Recommended reading
RECOMMENDED READING
Study hours
Scheduled activity hours | |
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Lectures | 22 |
Independent study hours | |
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Independent study | 78 |
Teaching staff
Staff member | Role |
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Cecilia Medupin | Unit coordinator |