Module overview
Biologists are often required to provide quantitative analyses of field data typically collected under imperfectly controlled conditions and across heterogeneous habitats. This module will develop generic skills in (1) the design of data collection protocols, particularly for shallow water marine environments and (2) the testing of hypotheses with appropriate statistical techniques.
The course will develop an understanding of the core principles of survey design and data analysis that underpin all quantitative sampling methods. The fieldwork component will develop the student's skills in shallow water biological survey using a range of methods best suited to the environment being surveyed, ranging from benthic grabs and trawls, transect surveys, photoquadrats, drop-down video, benthic sledge and Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) to CTDs and fluorimeters. Data developed from the survey will be analysed with appropriate visualisation and statistical software.