Module: BIO4003-20 Ecology and the Diversity of Life

Level: 4

Credit Value: 20

Module Tutor: Joanne Carnell

Module Tutor Contact Details: j.carnell@bathspa.ac.uk

1. Brief description and aims of module

This module aims to provide a theoretical and practical understanding of ecology, the natural world, and its rich biodiversity. It examines the importance and complexity of interactions between individuals, populations, communities, and the abiotic environment, introducing important biological characteristics of some of the major taxonomic groups, and demonstrating the use of keys for their identification.

2. Outline syllabus

A range of ecological principles are studied, such as: the ecological niche, species interactions, adaptation, population dynamics, succession, community ecology and wildlife conservation.

This module also introduces the rich diversity of organisms in the biological world. It explores the modern classification of species and highlights the key biological characteristics of the major phyla. Identification through the use of standard keys will also be demonstrated and practised.

3. Teaching and learning activities

There will normally be two taught sessions each week, a 2-hour lecture and a 3-hour practical. Lectures will focus on key ecological concepts and theories. The practicals, which are laboratory or field-based, will focus on using keys to explore biodiversity across multiple taxonomic groups.

Assessment Item 1:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Group Project & Presentation (2400 words)

• % Weighting: 60%

Assessment Item 2:

• Assessment Type: Course Work

• Description: Portfolio (1600 words equivalent)

• % Weighting: 40%