Marine Super Predators

 

Marine Super Predators can be studied as a stand-alone course and a key course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Field Ecology at Aberystwyth University. 

 

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Hanna Storey-Arnell

Learning Method: Online.

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XS13110

Fee: £140.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

This course is available to book.

 

Overview

From acrobatic Gannets to curios Orcas and enigmatic Great White Sharks, learners will be taught how to recognise individual species. The general behaviour, distribution, and biology of each species will be studied, and learners will also investigate ‘hot’ topics such as commercial whaling, the impact of climate change and the role of pop culture and media in the conservation of these apex species.

Programme

During the eight, 2-hour lectures, learners will study the following topics:

  1. Identification of a range of marine apex predator species using identification guides and other publications. Species including but not exclusive to: Grey Seals, Gannets, Black & Common Guillemots, Orcas, Great White Sharks, Tiger Sharks, Bull Sharks, Common Dolphins, Bottlenose Dolphins, Harbour Porpoise. The use of correct terminology will be encouraged.
  2. General Behaviour, Distribution & Biology of each species.
  3. Population monitoring, observation and census techniques, including citizen science projects.
  4. ‘Hot’ topics such as commercial whaling and the impact of climate change. 
  5. The impact of Pop Culture- The Jaws Effect.
  6. The impact of Pop Culture- The Free Willy Effect.
  7. Conservation issues relating to each of the species.
  8. Organisations and charity involvement in marine mammal protection.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

  1. Identify a range of marine apex predator species; demonstrating knowledge of their morphology and diagnostic features.

  2. Explain the general behaviour, distribution, feeding and breeding biology relating to the various marine apex predator species.

  3. Demonstrate an understanding of ‘hot’ topics such as commercial whaling and climate change on marine apex predators.

  4. Analyse the impact of pop culture and media on current conservation issues for a chosen species.

Assessments

  1. Educational Poster - 500 words (25%)
  2. Report - 1500 words (75%)

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:
• Internet access.
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also be of benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web-browser where possible.