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Ecology

Module description

Ecology is fundamental to understanding the interactions between organisms and their environments. In this module you will study the key concepts, knowledge and unanswered questions in the ecology of populations, communities and ecosystems. We will look at key theories, how they were tested experimentally, and how they can be applied to understand the natural world and our impact on the environment. We will consider the various approaches to ecological science, including observations, experiments and theoretical models. Wherever feasible, we will look at how a general predictive theory can emerge and how it can be applied to explain patterns and processes. In laboratory practicals, you will use key research tools in ecology and act as a professional ecologist undertaking research on a local species.

In order to take BIO1336 you must normally have an A Level (or equivalent) in Biology.

Module aims - intentions of the module

The module aims to introduce you to key concepts and investigative approaches in ecology. The relationship between ecology and conservation will be explored. Practical investigations will introduce you to ecological data analysis and interpretation. In particular, this module aims to provide you with knowledge and understanding that will enable you to take second and final year modules in organismal biology, ecology and evolution.

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

ILO: Module-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 1. Outline some of the major theories that can explain the form, distribution, and abundance of organisms
• 2. Relate ecological knowledge to the conservation of biodiversity
• 3. Develop practical skills in analysis of ecological data and biodiversity surveys

ILO: Discipline-specific skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 4. Summarise essential facts and theory in a sub-discipline of the biosciences
• 5. With some guidance, deploy established techniques of analysis, practical investigation and enquiry within the biosciences

ILO: Personal and key skills

On successfully completing the module you will be able to...

• 6. With guidance, study autonomously and undertake defined projects
• 7. With some guidance, select and properly manage information drawn from books, journals and the internet

Syllabus plan

Lectures will deal with various aspects of ecology, moving across scales from the individual to the ecosystem. Topics will include:

• definition of ecology;
• spatial ecology and biogeography;
• behavioural and evolutionary ecology;
• population ecology;
• community ecology and species interactions;
• ecosystem ecology;
• conservation biology.

The two practical sessions will encompass ecological research projects including field survey and desk-based analysis.

Accessibility statement:
As part of this module you will undertake sessions in the computing laboratory (of up to 80 students) that are of 3 hrs in duration. Breaks are possible and students are able to leave the laboratory for short periods. The field practical will involve an outdoor biodiversity survey with walking for up to 6 hours but at a relaxed pace with frequent stops. For this practical, students should wear warm, waterproof clothing with stout footwear.

Learning activities and teaching methods (given in hours of study time)

Details of learning activities and teaching methods

Formative assessment

Summative assessment (% of credit)

Details of summative assessment

Details of re-assessment (where required by referral or deferral)

Re-assessment notes

Deferral – if you miss an assessment for certificated reasons that are approved by the Mitigation Committee, you will normally be either deferred in the assessment or an extension may be granted. If deferred, the format and timing of the re-assessment for each of the summative assessments is detailed in the table above ('Details of re-assessment'). The mark given for a deferred assessment will not be capped and will be treated as it would be if it were your first attempt at the assessment.

Referral - if you have failed the module (i.e. a final overall module mark of less than 40%) and the module cannot be condoned, you will be required to complete a re-assessment for each of the failed components on the module. The format and timing of the re-assessment for each of the summative assessments is detailed in the table above ('Details of re-assessment'). If you pass the module following re-assessment, your module mark will be capped at 40%.

Indicative learning resources - Basic reading

• Campbell et al. (2017) Biology, 11th Ed. Pearson. ISBN 9781292170565
• Bowman et al. (2018) Ecology 4^th edition. Oxford University Press

Indicative learning resources - Web based and electronic resources

• ELE page: http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=3186

Key words search

Ecology, ecosystems, environment, global change, conservation biology