Overview

The module is based on a series of lectures and seminars. The lectures provide a conceptual background and overview. The seminars are conducted by groups of students and provide an opportunity for in-depth study and discussion. Seminars are based on research papers which are critically reviewed and presented by a group of students in the class. The lecturer provides a platform for understanding the topic area and provokes discussion about the background of the paper, assumptions, weaknesses, and politics eg. Why did the author write that?

Lecture Topics

1. Ecosystem Theory
2. Ecosystem Processes
3. Warming
4. Fire
5. Ozone
6. CO2
7. Soil Acidification
8. Nitrogen Deposition
9. Genetic Diversity
10. Tropical Forests

Learning Outcomes

• Be able to discuss biogeochemistry and ecosystem concepts.

• Have an understanding of complex systems.

• Understand concepts of ecosystem stability.

• Understand the destabilisation effects of environmental pollutants.

• Understand the importance of genetic diversity in ecosystem stability.