Course Resources Archive

The module covers the theory of Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) and ecological monitoring and applies theory to practice through fieldwork activities and laboratory practicals. This combined approach seeks to give students both conceptual knowledge and understanding, together with the skills needed to use techniques effectively and appropriately in practice. The knowledge and skills gained from this module can be used to support other modules and dissertations, while many also form key requirements for future ecology-related careers.

The module first establishes the legal and practical context of EcIA, using case studies to assist students in developing an understanding of the assessment process and identification of different types of impact. The need for, and effectiveness of, different ecological monitoring schemes is also considered. Landscape and habitat-level techniques, including remote sensing, Phase 1 Habitat Mapping (P1HM) methods and National Vegetation Classification (NVC), are detailed. A range of methods for surveying different taxonomic groups (plants, terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and birds) is then considered: this will include a fieldwork element. An introduction to bird song identification will be given. The role of indirect evidence (hair, footprints, droppings/pellets etc.) in ecological surveying will be examined: this aspect will include a laboratory element. The module will conclude by considering the ways in which species can be used bioindicators of abiotic environmental conditions, and how effective such systems are.

i. Knowledge and understanding
On successful completion of the module the student should be able to:
1.  Appreciate the legal and practical context of EcIA and ecological monitoring schemes;
2.  Describe clearly and in detail the range of methods that could be used to survey different habitats or taxonomic groups; as well as being able to synthesis and evaluate their relative advantages, disadvantages and potential biases;
3.  Critically evaluate the completeness or effectiveness of a specific EcIA or ecological monitoring scheme;
4.  Undertake an EcIA  at a given site, using appropriate methods, to reach appropriate and justified conclusions about the impacts that are likely to result from a specific change in land use at that site;
5.  Adopt the role of an ecological consultant and develop a suitable monitoring scheme from a brief.

ii. Skills
On completion of the module students should be able to demonstrate that they can:
1.  Identify and justify suitable methods for use in a specific EcIA or ecological monitoring scheme;
2.  Survey habitats and species in practice, using both direct and indirect methods with a high level of accuracy;
3.  Bring theory and practice together to plan, implement and communicate the results of an EcIA of a particular site;
4.  Respond clearly and completely to a consultant-style brief.

Staff / student contact: 25% (lectures, workshops, fieldwork activities and laboratory practicals)
Student directed learning: 35%
Assignment preparation: 40%

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.