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Ecological Principles - ENV00002C

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  • Department: Environment and Geography
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: C
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24

Module summary

This module provides an underpinning for subsequent ecology-related modules taken in later years. Whilst the module deals specifically with concepts in mainstream ecology, these concepts are presented within an interdisciplinary context wherever possible so that students can see the clear linkages with themes and concepts from other major disciplines and other parts of their overall degree programme.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2023-24

Module aims

Ecology is about the dynamical changes in individuals, populations, communities and ecosystems in relation to each other and to the physical environment. This module aims to provide a fundamental grounding in these changes and interactions. Students will also learn how these principles are applied in practice through an exploration of conservation strategies.

Practical skills in conducting ecological surveys and utilising biodiversity indices to generate results will allow students to put this theoretical knowledge into practice. Students will also learn how to present such data and produce scientific reports.

Module learning outcomes

On completion of this module a student will be able to:

  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles of ecology that underpin ecosystem stability and population growth
  • Demonstrate practical knowledge and an understanding of the basis for, and techniques for, sampling and measuring biological populations
  • Analyse ecological data and write up practical reports utilising that data
  • Demonstrate an appreciation of the factors which determine local, regional and global patterns in biological communities
  • Demonstrate knowledge of current approaches to the conservation of biodiversity

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Detailed written feedback will be provided on the assessed report. Ongoing verbal feedback throughout the module.

Indicative reading

Beeby & Brennan: First Ecology - Ecological Principles and Environmental Issues 3rd edition

Begon, M. et al (1996 and many subsequent editions) Ecology. Blackwells, Oxford

Krebs, C. (2008, or earlier editions). Ecology: The Experimental Analysis of Distribution and Publisher: Benjamin Cummings


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.