Last modified: 27 Oct 2022 12:10
Students will build on their knowledge of basic ecological theory with a more detailed approach to modelling required to help our understanding of population dynamics. These models will be considered for their value in setting appropriate management prescriptions for animal and plant populations to achieve objectives for conservation or sustainable use. Students will apply theory learned in lectures and recordings to a series of field- and computer-based exercises. The course will provide the students with valuable analytical skills and an in-depth knowledge and understanding of population dynamics.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | First Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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The course helps students to understand factors affecting plant and animal population dynamics. We will use a range of simple mathematical models representing population growth, competition and predation, which can be used to predict changes in population size. In addition, the course offers practical experience in the collection, handling and interpretation of population data. Throughout the course, concepts are illustrated using examples of populations that are of high conservation importance or which are managed to assure sustainable exploitation.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
| Assessment Type | Summative | Weighting | 40 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment Weeks | Feedback Weeks | |||
| 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. A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during practical sessions. |
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
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| Assessment Type | Summative | Weighting | 60 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment Weeks | Feedback Weeks | |||
| Feedback |
3 online tests worth 20% each. 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. A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during practical sessions. |
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
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There are no assessments for this course.
| Assessment Type | Summative | Weighting | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment Weeks | Feedback Weeks | |||
| Feedback |
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. |
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Conceptual | Understand | Understand the basic ecological theory and mathematical modelling approaches required to study the dynamics of animal populations, especially those requiring conservation management or being exploited |
| Procedural | Apply | Be able to apply appropriate models to datasets to understand the long-term dynamics of populations |
| Procedural | Evaluate | Develop writing skills by preparing a data analysis manuscript, interpreting the results and discussing its relevance in relation to theory |
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