Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| LIFE1031 | Life Sciences | 1 | 20 | Full Year UK |
- Code
- LIFE1031
- School
- Life Sciences
- Level
- 1
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Full Year UK
Summary
This module provides an introduction to the fundamentals of evolution, ecology and behaviour. Evolutionary processes are explored from a variety of approaches, from the fossil record, through adaptation, speciation and the study of phylogenetics and how it shapes the tree of life, right up to the cutting edge of genomic evolution. Modern ecology has never been a more important subject than now, a result of our major environmental problems. In this module ecological topics are explored by examining ecosystem processes, competition, predation, pathogens, parasites and disease, life histories, resources, niches, demographic processes, and sustainability. Understanding animal behaviour in response to their ecosystem begins with asking rigorous questions about foraging, signalling, sexual selection, parental care, altruism and also allows us to understand human behaviour in an evolutionary context.
Target Students
Biology U6UBOLGY/U7UBOLGY (C100/C101); Zoology U6UZOLGY/U7UZOLGY (C300/C301); Genetics U6UGNTCS/U7UGNTCS (C400/C401); Cancer Sciences U6UCANCS (B131) ; Natural Sciences U6UNATRS/U7UNATRS (FGC0/GFC0).
Classes
This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc
Assessment
- 40% Coursework 1: Spring Semester. Practical report, choice of one out of three practicals (500 words)
- 60% Exam 1 (1-hour): May/June - multiple choice examination (1 hour)
Assessed by end of spring semester
Educational Aims
A student who completes this module will have an understanding of: - The fundamental processes of evolution- The history and diversity of life on Earth and how it is structured into ecosystems- Interactions between biotic and abiotic environmental factors- How living organisms adapt to their environment- How animals interact with their environment behaviourally- How evolutionary and ecological processes lead to genetic change and speciation- Current issues in areas of conservation, epidemiology and climate change.Learning Outcomes
A student who completes this module will be expected to be able to:
A1. describe the evolution, genetics, behaviour and ecology of living organisms
A2. identify the relationship between evolution, ecology and behaviour and other biological disciplines and their relevance to humanity in the face of global challenges
A3. understand and use appropriate terminology to describe evolutionary, ecological and behavioural conceptsA3. understand and use appropriate terminology to describe evolutionary, ecological and behavioural concepts
A student who completes this module will have the ability to:
B2. undertake appropriate experimental design and statistical analysis
B3. work safely in the field and laboratory, using appropriate equipment and instruments and assess related safety issues in order to make and record accurate observations and measurements
B4. acquire information systematically, process it effectively, and draw appropriate conclusions
B5. demonstrate numeracy and written skills in the evaluation of the results from practical work
B6. develop effective ways of working including productive team work, scheduling of tasks and time management to meet deadlines
B7. demonstrate computing skills in the handling of scientific data and the use of on-line learning tools