Ecological Surveying
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| BIOS2089 | Biosciences | 2 | 10 | Spring UK |
- Code
- BIOS2089
- School
- Biosciences
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Spring UK
Summary
This module, will introduce students to a range of skills for environmental monitoring and ecological assessment. Students will develop key practical skills and gain valuable experience in planning and conducting fieldwork.
There will be a strong focus on developing practical skills and enhancing employability in the environmental job sector. Topics covered will include Plant identification and NVC - Phase 1 habitat surveys, surveying species, which have specific protections under law – bats and birds, terrestrial invertebrate survey techniques.
Target Students
BSc/MSci Environmental Biology and Science, Plant Science, Natural Sciences.
Classes
- One practicum each week for 5 weeks
- One lecture each week for 6 weeks
Assessment
- 100% Coursework 1: 100% Coursework
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
The module will help students to develop an appreciation of the practical skills relevant to environmental career pathways. Students will be able to identify and work towards targets for personal, career and academic development. During the module, students will get practical experience in identifying and surveying key taxa and habitats. Students will gain experience in different survey and sampling techniques. Students will develop their ability to design appropriate sampling strategies for a variety of habitats and taxa, which take account of relevant legislation and ethical considerations.Learning Outcomes
- Be able to conduct fieldwork investigations competently and safely
- Have an awareness of relevant legislation and understand the ethical constraints of ecological surveying
- Be able to identify and key taxa and habitats
- Be able use appropriate sampling technique.
- Be able use to design appropriate sampling strategies for different habitat types.
- Be able to measure species richness and calculate species diversity.
- Have an understanding of common data presentation methods used in the ecological sector.
Conveners
Last updated 07/01/2025.