BIOL3009 Applied ecology
Module Overview
- To extend the knowledge of ecology and population biology taught in first, second and third year modules to cover the application of these disciplines tosolving ecological problems, such as managing pests or genetically modified organisms and the problems associated with climate change.
- To provide a coherent summary of the main methods used to manage pest populations.
- To examine the ecological impacts of climate change and its mitigation
- To provide examples of the applications of theoretical ecology to topical ecological issues
- To provide a summary of factors influencing how the land is managed, especially in terms of food production.
Module Details
Title: Applied ecology
Code: BIOL3009
Year: 3
Semester: 1
CATS points: 15 ECTS points: 7.5
Level: Undergraduate
Co-ordinator(s): Professor Guy M Poppy
Pre-requisites and / or co-requisites
None, but BIOL2004 preferred.
| Module | Code | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Pure and applied population ecology | BIOL2004 | 2 |
Aims and objectives
By the end of this module you should be able to:
- Describe the major options currently available for the management of insect pests and weeds
- Give a reasoned argument for or against genetically modified organisms
- Understand issues relating to land management.
Syllabus
A module in applied ecology, focusing on major topical issues of the day (e.g. GM crops, climate change). The major part of the module is concerned with management of land, especially in relation to food production. There is particular emphasis on minimising undesirable effects of pesticides, and on alternatives to chemical pesticides such as microbial and biological control. This section concludes with an extended series of lectures, debates and videos addressing the potential risks and benefits associated with genetically modified organisms. The remainder of the module examines issues such as the ecological consequences of climate change, particularly its likely impact on plant communities and knock-on effects on other organisms. This module is particular relevant to those students interested in applied ecological and environmental issues, and to those interested in some of the conflicts between science and society.
The module is supported by seminars on related topics of interest, some of which will be given by outside speakers and by researchers talking about their areas of particular expertise.
Learning and teaching
Study time allocation
Contact hours: 25
Private study hours: 125
Total study time:
150
hours
Teaching and learning methods
Lectures, seminars, debates, videos with guest speakers and independent study.
Assessment
Assessment methods
Written examination (75%)
Examination at end of semester comprises one 2 hour paper requiring two questions to be answered from a choice of five.