ES1S206 - Natural History Surveying Techniques 01 Jul 2022 - 31 Aug 2028 | Version 1

Associated Module Information

Module Code: ES1S206
Module Title: Natural History Surveying Techniques
Faculty: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Faculty Group: Applied Sciences
Faculty Sub Group: Earth and Environment
Module Leader: Amelia Grass
Module Team: Ian Skilling, Eiry Bateman, Richard Penrose
First Intended Intake: SEP 2027 Final Year of Intake: 2027
Date Closed:
Credit Value: 20 Credit Level: 4
Language: English
Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: 0
Equivalent Module:
HECOS codes: 100381 - environmental sciences 100469 - environmental management
HECOS Code Weighting: 40 60

Document Version Information

Version 1
Valid From 01 Jul 2022
Valid To 31 Aug 2028

Module Aims

To introduce and develop field observational and recording skills relating to natural history.

To develop and safely practice a range of practical and analytical NH field techniques.

To develop core scientific skills in conducting wildlife field experiments and producing written reports of the experiments.

Content Summary

The module is primarily delivered via two residential field courses within the UK, supported by additional lectures.

The course includes an introduction to ecological field skills and species identification for example plant and trees, and wildlife observations of pinnipeds.

It will include an introduction to major wildlife observation techniques such as surveying of cetaceans, seabirds, and other birds.

Ecological and natural history skills are embedded within the module. These include wildlife observations, surveying, and recording techniques, for example species identification and descriptions, field notebooks, behavioural observations, tracks and signs, camera trapping.

Learning and Teaching Methods

Activity Type Hours
Lecture 30
Fieldwork 54
Independent Study 98
Directed Study 18
Total Hours Selected 200

Learning Outcomes

# Learning Outcome
LO1 Develop wildlife observational, surveying, and recording skills in the field, with an emphasis on industry-standard techniques as used in the UK
LO2 Safely and competently undertake fieldwork adhering to risk assessments.

Module Requisites

N/A

Assessment Criteria

Assessment Category Assessment Type Description Duration Word Count Weight (%) Best of? Pass Mark
Asynchronous Assessment Practical Coursework 2 (Asynch) Series of short tests, recording sheets,and written assessment. 0 2000 50 No 40
Asynchronous Assessment Practical Coursework 1 (Asynch) Report of observations carried out in the field 0 2000 50 No 40

Assessment Matrix

Assessment Type Learning Outcomes
LO1 LO2
Practical Coursework 2 (Asynch)
Practical Coursework 1 (Asynch)

Reading List

Shirihai, H. & Jarrett, B. 2011. Whales, Dolphins and Seals, 3rd Ed, A&C Black, London

Svensson, L., Mullarney, K., Zetterstrom, D., & Grant, P.J. 2010. Collins Bird Guide, 2nd Ed, Collins

Kent, M.& Coker ,P.,2008.Vegetation Description and Analysis, 2nd ed. Wiley