Module Details |
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module. |
Title | ECOLOGY PRACTICAL SKILLS | ||
Code | ENVS261 | ||
Coordinator |
Prof CL Parr Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences Kate.Parr@liverpool.ac.uk |
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Year | CATS Level | Semester | CATS Value |
Session 2019-20 | Level 5 FHEQ | Second Semester | 7.5 |
Aims |
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To provide students with practical experience of a range of techniques used in terrestrial ecology; To develop students’ ability to use analytical instruments and techniques, and to execute experiments; To develop knowledge and understanding of ecological methods, the ability to apply this knowledge, and evaluate and interpret data to answer ecological questions. |
Learning Outcomes |
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(LO1) To plan and execute a series of experiments employing techniques used in ecology, use laboratory and field equipment correctly and safely to generate data. |
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(LO2) To obtain, critically evaluate, and interpret qualitative and quantitative ecological data, and record procedures and protocols. |
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(LO3) To analyse data, interpret validity, and, where appropriate, apply statistical analysis. |
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(S1) Numeracy: general mathematical awareness and its application in practical contexts, e.g. measuring, weighing, estimating, and applying formulae |
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(S2) Problem solving: critical thinking, and creativity, analysing data and situations and applying creative thinking to develop appropriate solutions |
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(S3) Team working: respecting others, co-operating, negotiating, awareness of interdependence with others. |
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(S4) Communication skills: verbal and written |
Syllabus |
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Dendrochronology - how to age trees, measure annual growth increments and link this to environmental factors. Assessment of plant health and productivity – measurement of biomass, leaf area, chlorophyll fluorescence, photosynthetic and respiration rate. Introduction to Rapid Biodiversity Assessment, including invertebrate sampling methods and basic sampling design. |
Teaching and Learning Strategies |
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Teaching Method 1 - Lecture Teaching Method 2 – Laboratory/field work Teaching Method 3 - Field Work |
Teaching Schedule |
Lectures | Seminars | Tutorials | Lab Practicals | Fieldwork Placement | Other | TOTAL | |
Study Hours |
3 |
20 |
8 |
31 | |||
Timetable (if known) | |||||||
Private Study | 44 | ||||||
TOTAL HOURS | 75 |
Assessment |
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EXAM | Duration | Timing (Semester) |
% of final mark |
Resit/resubmission opportunity |
Penalty for late submission |
Notes |
CONTINUOUS | Duration | Timing (Semester) |
% of final mark |
Resit/resubmission opportunity |
Penalty for late submission |
Notes |
Lab report based on dendrochronology practical. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When): semester 2 | 1000 words | 20 | ||||
Lab report based on the two plant productivity practicals. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :2 | 1500 words | 40 | ||||
Report based on self-directed field study (rapid biodiversity assessment). Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :sem 2 | 1500 words | 40 |
Recommended Texts |
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Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module. |