Module Information
Course Delivery
| Delivery Type | Delivery length / details |
|---|---|
| Lecture | 2 x 1 hour lectures per week |
| Practical | 2 x 3 hour practicals during semester |
| Other | 2 x 3 hour field visits during semester |
Assessment
| Assessment Type | Assessment length / details | Proportion |
|---|---|---|
| Semester Assessment | Practical book Outcomes 1-4 | 50% |
| Semester Exam | 1.5 Hours Short-answer question paper Outcomes 1, 3 | 50% |
| Supplementary Assessment | 1.5 Hours Examination 50%; Assignment 50% Candidates must take elements of assessment equivalent to those that led to failure of the module Outcomes 1-4 | 100% |
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this module students should be able to:
1. Explain the concepts of evolution, populations, communities, ecosystems, habitats, niche, ecological succession, the cycling of matter and energy flow;
2. Use identification keys and demonstrate a knowledge of classification systems for organisms;
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the adaptations to the environment of plants, animals and micro-organisms;
4. Use appropriate techniques for the recording, presentation, analysis and interpretation of ecological field data.
Brief description
The module describes the scientific principles underlying all biological systems. This includes basic physiological processes for growth and development, reproductive strategies and adaptations for function and to the environment in plants, animals and microorganisms. The need for classification of organisms and use of keys will be demonstrated practically. The basic ecological concepts of niche, habitat, population, communities, ecological succession, the cycling of matter and energy flow will be covered. The range and diversity of plant/animal/ microbial interactions in biological systems will be outlined.
Content
Feeding and energy budgets
Reproductive strategies, ecological genetics and evolution
Plant structure function and adaptation
Animal structure, function and adaptation
Population dynamics and regulation
Factors influencing distribution and abundance
Energy flow and nutrient cycles
Habitat, niche, communities and succession
Module Skills
| Skills Type | Skills details |
|---|---|
| Application of Number | Practical classes will require the collection and manipulation of numerical data. |
| Communication | Listen effectively in lectures and on field visits. Write for different purposes and audiences - through the write up of practicals and for examination. |
| Improving own Learning and Performance | Outside formal contact hours students will be expected to research materials, manage time and meet deadlines. The directed study elements will provide an opportunity for students to explore their own learning styles and preferences and identify their needs and barriers to learning. Students will be able to review and monitor their progress and plan for improvement of personal performance. |
| Information Technology | Accessing the internet for information sources contributing to assessed reports. |
| Personal Development and Career planning | Students will gain confidence in their ability to evaluate biological material in the laboratory and in the field. |
| Problem solving | Practicals and visits will require evaluation and interpretation of field information to discuss biological and ecological factors affecting organisms |
| Research skills | Practical classes will allow for the development of laboratory and field based research skills. |
| Subject Specific Skills | Evaluation of biological material in the lab and in the field |
| Team work |
Notes
This module is at CQFW Level 4