Overview

The aim of this module is to train students in the design and implementation of surveys, introduce them to various monitoring methods, key skills, and topics, while developing student understanding of how these areas relate to conservation practice. We will also ensure that students have a good understanding of the range of challenges faced by those involved in conservation practice, and how they are overcome. The module is delivered with input from conservation practitioners, organizations, and employers (for example, the British Trust for Ornithology, the North Wales Wildlife Trust, IUCN SSC conservation planning specialist group) and has a focus on interdisciplinary skills needed by employers of conservation graduates.

The course is split into two parts. 1) Training in the design and implementation of surveys, monitoring methods, key skills, and disciplines that inform conservation practice 2) Exploration of the challenges of conservation practice

The course is split into two parts.

1) Training in the design and implementation of surveys, monitoring methods, key skills, and disciplines that inform conservation practice: a) Conservation monitoring (survey & experimental design, introduction to citizen science) b) Conservation Behaviour c) Law & Development d) Human dimensions of conservation e) Estimating species population size and indexes of abundance (e.g., mark and recapture, WEBs counts) f) Measuring biodiversity & assessing habitat (e.g. UKHab classification surveys, indicator species associated with habitat classifications and metrics of biodiversity used in the context of Biodiversity Net Gain). g) Management & Restoration g) Conservation careers

2) Exploration of the challenges of conservation practice: This part of the course will draw heavily on a range of real-world case studies delivered in partnership with conservation organizations. We will particularly emphasize real-world situations where the skills learnt in the first half of the module can be applied to achieve positive conservation outcomes. We will also provide students with training in key legislation relating to species and habitat protection in the UK, including an understanding of various licenses and vocational qualifications conservation graduates frequently obtain in order to pursue a career in ecological consultancy and applied conservation work.

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (40-49%): 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 information from lectures, field trips, practicals and readings in a structured and logical manner, and all assessments should demonstrate the general capacity to organise acquired knowledge.

Good (50-69%): 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, information from practicals and field trips, and some information from background reading into coherent arguments.

Excellent (70-100%): 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, information from practicals and field trips, and information from extensive background reading in support of detailed, developed arguments.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply principles of sampling and experimental design to studies in conservation.

• Discuss and critically evaluate potential responses to biodiversity loss.

• Structure a coherent written argument with reference to the literature.

• Understand and be able to implement common field techniques used by conservation professionals and researchers.

• Understand fundamental aspects of conservation practice