Core Module Information
Module title: Current Topics in Ecology

SCQF level: 10:
SCQF credit value: 20.00
ECTS credit value: 10

Module code: ENV10108
Module leader: Gavin Ballantyne
School School of Applied Sciences
Subject area group: Life Sciences
Prerequisites

Requisites: Pre-requisite: [Module BMS09108] Research Methods

Description of module content:

In this module you will learn about up-to-date, contemporary issues in applied ecology. This module is designed to give a good grounding in theory, method and application as you approach employment or further study in ecology and conservation biology disciplines. Applied ecology uses the study of the abundance, distribution and dynamics of organisms to address management and conservation issues. Your ability to demonstrate a broad knowledge of applied ecology by reference to contemporary issues and case studies will better prepare you to to deal with such issues during your careers. The contemporary nature of this module means the precise content will change as the discipline progresses, but indicative topics include: impacts of invasive species, urban ecology, climate change and provisioning of ecosystem services. Broadly, the module will offer two opportunities for learning: (1) To discuss contemporary issues with invited speakers from organisations that are working on the front-line of applied ecology and conservation. (2) To investigate in greater depth active applied ecology research carried out by scientists at Edinburgh Napier University, following a process from problem identification, study design, analysis, interpretation of data and finally forming management/conservation recommendations.

Learning Outcomes for module:

Upon completion of this module you will be able to

LO1: Critically appraise the success/failure of current evidence-based conservation activities.

LO2: Demonstrate the ability to communicate a complex conservation science issue to a specific audience.

LO3: Defend the need for, and means of, obtaining high quality data in wildlife and habitat management.

LO4: Perform appropriate statistical analyses and demonstrate ability to present data and analytical results clearly and concisely.

LO5: Competently derive management and further research recommendations based on the results from data analysis.

Full Details of Teaching and Assessment
2024/5, Trimester 1, In Person,
VIEW FULL DETAILS
Occurrence: 001
Primary mode of delivery: In Person
Location of delivery: SIGHTHILL
Partner:
Member of staff responsible for delivering module: Gavin Ballantyne
Module Organiser:


Student Activity (Notional Equivalent Study Hours (NESH))
Mode of activityLearning & Teaching ActivityNESH (Study Hours)NESH Description
Face To Face Lecture 18 Lectures will be provided by lecturers and guest speakers and will involve the presentation of key ideas, concepts and recent developments in ecology. They will also involve interactive class and group discussion.
Face To Face Tutorial 5 During tutorials you will prepare for the assessments, practicing your presentation skills and giving and receiving peer feedback.
Face To Face Practical classes and workshops 12 During practicals you will gain experience analysing data and using the results to make practical management recommendations.
Face To Face Seminar 6 During week 9 you will participate in a week long series of talks, both as presenter and audience member.
Online Guided independent study 159 Guided independent study will be required, where you will explore the course reading and prepare for tutorials, practicals and assessments.
Total Study Hours200
Expected Total Study Hours for Module200


Assessment
Type of Assessment Weighting % LOs covered Week due Length in Hours/Words Description
Report 60 3~4~5 Week 13 , WORDS= 2000 words You will complete a quantitative/interpretive assessment based on one of a choice of three in-depth case-studies. You will write this up as a scientific report.
Oral Presentation 40 1~2 Week 9 HOURS= 13 min Production and delivery of a 10 minute presentation, in which you will summarise a complex conservation issue for a either a scientific audience or the general public. You will then have 3 minutes to answer questions.
Component 1 subtotal: 40
Component 2 subtotal: 60
Module subtotal: 100

Indicative References and Reading List - URL:
Current topics in Ecology