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  5. Zoology
  6. ZO4539: ADVANCED BEHAVIOURAL ECOLOGY

ZO4539: ADVANCED BEHAVIOURAL ECOLOGY (2014-2015)

Last modified: 28 Jun 2018 10:27


Course Overview

This course will give you the opportunity to explore the behaviour of animals in an evolutionary context, for example, why some individuals behave differently from others within the same species. 

Access to academics working at the cutting edge of behavioural research which gives insight into both behaviour patterns and mechanisms for the study of behaviour.

Workshops encourage further exploration of core topics through discussion of research papers and construction of computer-based models to illustrate concepts.

Opportunity to produce a grant proposal for research into behavioural ecology which gives an introduction the process of procuring research funding.

Course Details

Study Type Undergraduate Level 4
Term Second Term Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus None. Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Dr Pierre Bize

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

None.

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

None.

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

Topics covered include investigating optimality and game theory, ecological and evolutionary aspects of mate choice, mating systems and sexual conflict and the role of behaviour in management and conservation (including captive breeding and reintroduction). This course will introduce techniques commonly employed in behavioural ecology research. Emphasis will be placed on quantitative and statistical approaches to theoretical and practical behavioural research. Lectures will be supplemented by case studies in key topics, student-centred learning, discussion groups and debates based on current journal articles. An important practical component of the course will be centred upon the exploration of theoretical concepts using a computer-based modelling approach.

Further Information & Notes

Only available to students in level 4 Zoology, Biology and other Biological Sciences degrees. Pre-requisite should be strictly adhered to.

Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 30 August 2024 for 1st term courses and 20 December 2024 for 2nd term courses.

Summative Assessments

1st Attempt: 1 three-hour written examination (70%) and continuous assessment (30%). Continuous assessment is made up of a seminar presentation.

Resit: 1 three-3 hour written examination (100%).

Formative Assessment

A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during practical and presentation sessions.

Feedback

Each student will receive individual feedback and a mark for each task. Feedback will be provided as written comments. Groups will also be given generic feedback. Students who are identified as having difficulty in successfully completing the coursework assessment tasks will be invited to meet members of the course team to identify difficulties and discuss solutions.

Course Learning Outcomes

None.
 

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