Last modified: 05 Aug 2021 13:04
This course builds on themes from introductory ecology courses. You will develop your abilities to interpret data by applying theory discussed in classes to real-life data sets using short problem-solving exercises linked to each topic. Feedback will help you improve writing and interpretation skills. Extended problem-solving exercises will improve your communication skills, scientific writing and introduce you to valuable approaches to summarising complex datasets in Excel. A series of tutorials will allow you develop critical thinking as you explore specific themes in more detail. You will also consider issues around experimental design.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | First Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Aberdeen | Sustained Study | Yes |
| Co-ordinators |
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The content covers core topics in ecology and uses examples from terrestrial and marine systems, plants, animals and soil. It features the following themes: the nature of ecological communities and how we describe, measure and quantify them; interactions such as herbivory, competition, parasitism and predation; the role of mutualisms in community dynamics; the impact of biodiversity and its effect on ecosystem function; food-webs, community assembly and biogeography; population dynamics and ecosystem processes.
Although topics are covered as separate units, there is a strong emphasis on the links between these interactions, encouraging you to develop a holistic view to see how organisms and functions are interconnected.
Interpretation exercises based on theories and ideas from each topic will develop your capacity for problem identification, collection of evidence and synthesis of ideas.
The introduction to Excel PivotTables provides you with a transferable skill which may be valuable for analysing data in Honours Projects and when working with any large data set in future.
Tutorials will enhance your capacity for independent, conceptual thinking, encourage intellectual curiosity and encourage critical evaluation of ideas.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
2 open book tests (20% and 30%) (50% in total)
4 practicals (7.5% each) (30% in total)
5 tutorial participation (4% each) (20% in total)
Alternative Resit Arrangements for students taking course in Academic Year 2020/21
Students will repeat whichever elements of the assessment were failed or not completed at first sitting; the marks for elements already passed will be carried forwards.
There are no assessments for this course.
| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Factual | Remember | ILO’s for this course are available in the course guide. |
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