Course Resources Archive
NS6208: Conservation Ecology
Module Title | Conservation Ecology |
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Module Code | NS6208 |
Module Tutor | Anne Goodenough |
School | Natural and Social Sciences |
CAT Points | 15 |
Level of Study | 6 |
Pre-requisites | None |
Co-requisites | None |
Restrictions | Cannot be counted with BIO326 or BIO330 |
Brief Description | This module explores the management and conservation of species, habitats and landscapes. Students will gain an understanding of key theoretical concepts important to conservation and will apply this theory to practice to address real-world issues and problems. The module will be of interest to students wishing to increase their understanding of ecological management and conservation. This module complements NS6203 Population and Community Ecology. |
Indicative Syllabus | This module is concerned with understanding natural and anthropogenic threats to species, habitats and landscapes and the ways in which conservation can used to manage ecological resources more sustainably. We consider a variety of case studies at a range of spatial scales, from global initiatives to national policies and local schemes, to investigate management in different contexts. Results of human modification of ecosystems are considered, with particular reference to land mammals in Africa. Design of nature reserves and use of landscape conservation designations are reviewed. The need for, and effectivenessof, species conservation schemes is assessed using Population Viability Analysis. The concept and practicalities of restoration ecology are studied, with particular reference to species re-introduction schemes. |
Learning Outcomes | A student passing this module should be able to: 1. Identify threats to, and changes in, species populations and habitat integrity that lead to the need for conservation action 2. Understand the differences between, and relative importance of, in- situ and ex-situ conservation for species, habitats and landscapes 3. Appreciate the complexity of species-habitat interactions their importance when devising appropriate management strategies 4. Identify how generic and specific factors influence the success, or otherwise, of conservation initiates 5. Use conservation terminology with accuracy and precision to critique the effectiveness of different conservation schemes 6. Suggest a suitable in-situ and/or ex-situ management for a given situation and produce an objective case study report linking theory and practice |
Learning and Teaching Activities | Scheduled Contact Hours: 36 Independent Learning Hours: 114 |
Assessment (For further details see the Module Guide) | 001: 40% Coursework: Individual, standard written: 1500 words or equivalent 002: 60% Coursework: Individual, standard written: 2000 words or equivalent |
Special Assessment Requirements | |
Indicative Resources | The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide. |