Ecology
Welcome to the Ecology programme for 2011-12
Courses 2011-2012
Click here for a list of offered Ecology Courses
Click here for details regarding our Certificates in Field and Conservation Ecology courses.
Click here for details regarding our Diploma in Field and Conservation Ecology courses.
Are these courses for me?
Yes, everyone is welcome on our courses. A Scientific background is not required. The programme gives a wide choice of courses at several venues, offering interesting choices especially to anyone fascinated by the living world and the local environment.
Personal interest
Many of our students take one or two courses every year simply out of personal interest ….. just dip in to the programme and you may become engrossed in the courses on offer. In October 2010, four students who began in this way were awarded Certificates of Higher Education in Field Ecology. Their achievement reflects not only their personal interest but their ability to rise to the challenge and study the natural world through Lifelong Learning courses.
Professional Development and Employability
Individual courses are ideal for professional development to broaden knowledge and enhance skills or to fill skill gaps whilst in employment.
Alternatively, if you are seeking employment our courses could give you a competitive edge in the job market. They provide further knowledge, hands on experience and identification skills in specific subject areas that have been highlighted by The National Environment Research Council (NERC) as most wanted by employees in the environmental sector. All courses are accredited by the University of Aberystwyth and can be selected from the programme to suit your professional needs. A credit certificate provides recognition for your efforts following successful assessment.
An individual course can proudly be added to a C.V. They are ideal for anyone who cannot contemplate full time study due to other commitments and provide you with a part-time pathway to study ecology, even a completed Higher Education Certificate or Diploma in Ecology. Congratulations went to four Lifelong Learning students who were awarded Certificates of Higher Education in Field Ecology in 2010. Their achievement in completing several years of dedicated study in their free time, some whilst in full time employment, shows that gaining the Certificate is an attainable goal.
Assessment
This is an integral part of every course and will add to your learning experience. Assessments are designed for adult learners and generally they are embedded into a course. They are usually accumulative, based on the classes and workshops themselves. Often a portfolio is produced which results in a useful record of the subject matter covered. The information, data recorded, sketches, specimens and samples make very useful reference material. Tutors always offer help, advice and encouragement and feedback is given.
How are the courses delivered?
The venues we use and the way in which the courses are delivered vary from year to year. It depends upon the subject area and a continuation of successful partnerships that have been established over recent years. Course dates also vary but are often determined by living organisms and their seasons! Popular courses are offered every year but others are only offered every few years.
Many courses are now taught intensively over three days at venues with a residential option. They are becoming very popular with our local students and are also ideal for professional development. Intensive courses give students from all over the country the opportunity to study in Wales, enhancing course dynamics and experiences.
Non-intensive courses have short, weekly sessions or have longer half day or full day sessions with plenty of time between to allow for your own study. The majority of courses are taught through practical, hands-on workshops and involve some field-work. Several courses have a major field-work element. All courses involve 20 contact hours with the tutor.
Specific Course Information for 2011-2012