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 Laboratory and Field Techniques for Ecologists
Code ENVS171
Coordinator Dr JA Green
Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences
Jonathan.Green@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2022-23 Level 4 FHEQ Second Semester 15

Aims

This practical module will provide training in a range of ecological skills in a series of field exercises, either in person, or through online equivalent exercises, as necessary. Techniques taught include sampling and identification of plants and animals, communities and measurement of selected ecological processes. Students will learn quantitative skills in field ecology and how they can be used to solve fundamental and applied problems.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Be able to apply a quantitative approach to field and laboratory ecology.

(LO2) Understand how to identify taxa and be familiar with the range of approaches used to sample species and communities.

(LO3) Understand the basis of how biodiversity is adapted to, and influenced by, environmental conditions.

(S1) Adaptability

(S2) Problem solving skills

(S3) Numeracy

(S4) Organisational skills

Syllabus
 

Part 1

A series of exercises in and around the Liverpool, which might include for example:

Introduction to vertebrate behaviour (CTL with field excursion in Liverpool region).

An eco-physiology practical assessing the efficiency of mussels for water filtration in the Liverpool Docks (CTL and field excursion).

Size distribution of organisms, using cockles on a sandy shore (field excursion with computer lab).

Sampling theory and practice: a plant-based exercise, making use of different types of methodology (local field excursion) and including identification skills.

Part 2

A residential field course in the UK. This practical course will be held in the second half of term.

The class will be split into groups and each group taught different activities on rotation. Both groups will be further divided into small working groups. Each session will be preceded by a one hour lecture session to provide background in theory and procedures, and followed by a one hour lecture/workshop session to discuss learning outcomes. In each field session students will work individually or within small groups and receive help in the planning, execution and interpretation of the experiments from demonstrators. Course manuals will provide theoretical background, detailed protocols and procedures, and examples of worked data.

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: Lectures for each of the laboratory and field days
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Field Work
Description: Laboratory and field work in the CTL and/or local environs
Attendance Recorded: Yes
Unscheduled Directed Student Hours (time spent away from the timetabled sessions but directed by the teaching staff): 6

Teaching Method 3 - Field Work
Description: Field Work - Residential
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 10

       64

   74
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 76
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
MCQ exam on material from Residential field course Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Sem 2 week 12  0    25       
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Practical 1: Online test Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :2nd semester  0    12       
Practical 2: Online test Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Sem 2  0    12       
Final assessment. Assessment of field course Portfolios (and submission of notebook) on field course Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is not an anonymous assessment. Asses  0    25       
Practical 3: Online test This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Sem 2  0    12       
Practical 4: Online test Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Sem 2  0    12       

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.