Overview

This module will introduce students to the study of ecology, with an emphasis on understanding how species, populations, and communities are shaped by interactions with biotic and abiotic conditions. In this module, you will learn about what factors cause populations to change over time and how changes in multiple populations can influence broader communities. Topics may include population regulation and limitation, basic models quantifying population change, the consequences of species interactions, community ecology, and macroecology.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -A threshold student should have a basic knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts presented in the module. Written work should demonstrate a basic ability to synthesise and interpret data from lectures and readings in a structured and logical manner, and all assessments should demonstrate the general capacity to organise acquired knowledge. (Grade D; mark range 40)

-good -A good student should have thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, and be able to cite examples and case studies where appropriate. Written work should demonstrate an ability to think about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and some information from background reading into coherent arguments. (Grade B; mark range 60-69%)

-excellent -An excellent student should have a high level of detailed factual knowledge across all aspects of the module, and be able to detail examples and case studies where appropriate. Written work should demonstrate an ability to think critically about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and information from extensive background reading in support of detailed, developed arguments. (Grade A; mark range 70-100%)   For Assessment detail see Appendix A. 

Learning Outcomes

• Apply simple statistics to quantify ecological phenomena and critically evaluate results

• Explain abiotic and biotic factors that produce changes in populations and communities over space and time

• Explain how population- and community-level ecological processes influence macroecological patterns

• Identify how species interactions influence community composition over space and time