4B005B - Principles of Ecology 01 Sep 2027 - 31 Aug 2033 | Version 0
Associated Module Information
| Module Code: | 4B005B | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Module Title: | Principles of Ecology | ||
| Faculty: | Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science | ||
| Faculty Group: | Applied Science | ||
| Faculty Sub Group: | Biology and Chemistry | ||
| Module Leader: | Natalie Lubbock | ||
| Module Team: | |||
| First Intended Intake: | SEP 2027 | Final Year of Intake: | 2032 |
| Date Closed: | |||
| Credit Value: | 30 | Credit Level: | 4 |
| Language: | English | ||
| Percentage of Module Taught in Welsh: | 33 | ||
| Equivalent Module: | |||
| HECOS codes: | 101318 - biodiversity conservation | ||
| HECOS Code Weighting: | 100 | ||
Document Version Information
| Version | 0 |
|---|---|
| Valid From | 01 Sep 2027 |
| Valid To | 31 Aug 2033 |
Module Aims
The main aims of the module are:
· Aim 1: To gain a sound understanding of ecosystem structure and function including essential terminology, as a foundational knowledge for the application of this theory in future ecological modules for evaluating species and community ecology, and drivers of ecological degradation and biological sustainability.
· Aim 2: To synthesise ecological theory with practice by demonstrating field and lab-based practical skills to gather data and use standard taxonomic and environmental surveying techniques to quantify biodiversity and ecosystem health
· Aim 3: To equip students to move beyond qualitative descriptions and into quantitative evaluation, by teaching ecological analysis and interpretation, developing academic integrity.
Content Summary
This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of ecology and explores how organisms interact with each other and their environments across a range of ecosystems. You will develop an understanding of key ecological concepts including biodiversity, ecosystem structure and function, population dynamics, community interactions, energy flow and ecological succession. The module also examines the impact of human activity on ecosystems and the importance of conservation in the Anthropocene.
Through a combination of lectures, laboratory activities and fieldwork, you will gain practical experience in ecological surveying, species identification and environmental data collection. You will learn to use standard ecological and taxonomic techniques to assess biodiversity and ecosystem health while developing confidence in handling, analysing and interpreting ecological data.
The module places strong emphasis on applying ecological theory to real-world environmental challenges. Field and laboratory investigations will help you build skills in scientific observation, quantitative analysis, teamwork and professional communication. You will also develop digital and research skills through the use of ecological software, scientific literature and data analysis tools.
By combining ecological theory with practical investigation, this module provides a strong foundation for further study in ecology, conservation, environmental science and wider biological sciences.
Learning and Teaching Methods
| Activity Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Practical classes and workshops | 42 |
| Fieldwork | 14 |
| Directed Study | 59.5 |
| Guided Learning | 10.5 |
| Independent Study? | 54 |
| Formative Assessment | 60 |
| Summative Assessment | 60 |
| Total Hours Selected | 300 |
Learning Outcomes
| # | Learning Outcome |
|---|---|
| LO1 | Attain a firm theoretical understanding of essential ecological concepts and the capacity to apply these fundamental principles in diverse, authentic, ecological settings |
| LO2 | Demonstrate field and lab-based practical skills to gather data and use relevant software to analyse and interpret within an ecological context. |
Module Requisites
N/A
Assessment Criteria
| Assessment Category | Assessment Type | Description | Duration | Word Count | Weight (%) | Best of? | Pass Mark |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asynchronous Assessment | Field Folio 1 | This assessment requires students to collect, analyse and interpret ecological data, reflecting real-world tasks undertaken by professional ecologists and environmental scientists. It supports active learning and continuous development, as students build their folio progressively across the module through fieldwork, practical sessions and guided activities. | 0 | 4000 | 100 | No | 40 |
Assessment Matrix
| Assessment Type | Learning Outcomes | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| LO1 | LO2 | ||
| Field Folio 1 | ✔ | ✔ | |