Last modified: 22 May 2019 17:07
This course will give you the opportunity to explore, for example, why some individuals behave differently from others within the same species, and how insights on behaviours can improve the implementation of conservation plans.
Academics working at the cutting edge of behavioural research will report on the state-of-art in their field.
Directed learnings will encourage further exploration of core topics through discussion of research papers and construction of computer-based models to illustrate concepts.
A continuous assessment where you will produce a grant proposal for research into behavioural ecology will introduce you to the process of research planning.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | Second Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | None. | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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Topics covered include, investigating personality traits, optimality and game theory, ecological and evolutionary aspects of mate choice, or animal cooperation. Lectures will be supplemented by case studies in key topics, student-centred learning, discussion groups and debates based on current journal articles. Practical components of the course are (i) the use of computer-based modelling to gain a better understanding of theoretical concepts in behavioural ecology; and (ii) group writing of a grant proposal to develop your critical thinking on the use of behavioural ecology for conservation purposes
None
Only available to students in level 4 Zoology, Biology and other Biological Sciences degrees. Pre-requisite should be strictly adhered to.
This course runs in weeks 25-29, and is scheduled in Thread 1, so may have contact hours in any or all of these times: Mondays, 9-13; Thursday, all day; Friday, 9-13. If this is an optional course, there may also be contact hours on Wednesdays, 11-13.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
1st Attempt: 100% coursework to include
1. A single short essay relevant to a directed study topic (25%),
2. A grant proposal (individual assignment (40%),
3. An oral presentation (group assignment 20%)
4. And a participation grade (15%) (based on individual engagement in class activities, both the modelling exercises and the weekly directed study discussions)
Resit: Similar to 1st Attempt, with continuous assessment mark(s) and/or exam mark carried forward with an opportunity to resit either or both, depending on what was failed in the first attempt
A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during practical and presentation sessions.
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.
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