Animal Behaviour and Physiology

Code

LIFE2060

School

Life Sciences

Level

2

Credits

20

Semesters

Spring UK

Summary

There is a limited number of places on this module. Students are reminded that enrolments which are not agreed by the Offering School in advance may be cancelled without notice. This module provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of animal behaviour, from the physiological and genetic bases of behaviour to its development through learning and its adaptive significance in the natural environment. Practical classes will demonstrate the physiological basis of fundamental behaviours. Using examples from across the animal kingdom, it emphasises how predictive modelling, experimental and observational approaches integrate to explain how and why animals behave as they do. You are strongly advised to have taken LIFE1031 Evolution, Ecology and Behaviour and LIFE1030 Life on Earth in the first year. If you have not taken both of these modules, you should be prepared to catch up on what you may have missed.

Target Students

Biology U6UBOLGY/U7UBOLGY (C100/C101); Zoology U6UZOLGY/U7UZOLGY (C300/C301); Genetics U6UGNTCS/U7UGNTCS (C400/C401); Natural Sciences U6UNATRS/U7UNATRS (FGC0/GFC0); Animal Science U6UANMAL/U7UANMAL (D320/D322).

Classes

This module may be delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and labs etc

Assessment

• 30% Coursework 1: ExamSys quiz relating to practical work
• 70% Exam 1 (2-hour): ExamSys and short-answer question examination

Assessed by end of spring semester

Educational Aims

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes:
Knowledge and understanding
By the end of the module students should be able to:
1)•Describe the major processes of animal physiology and explain how it underpins behaviour
2)•Explain how evolutionary theory provides the basis for the interpretation of animal behaviour
3)•Demonstrate an understanding of modern approaches to the study of animal behaviour and physiology
4)•Understand and use appropriate terminology and nomenclature when communicating their knowledge in class discussions, reports and essays.
Professional, transferable and practical skills
By the end of the module students should be able to:
1)•Measure and record data systematically so that it may be analysed
2)•Engage effectively in team work to produce reliable data sets
3)•Demonstrate information technology literacy by using online resources to supplement lecture and practical materials
4)•Safely engage in laboratory practical classes.

Professional, transferable and practical skills

By the end of the module students should be able to:

1. Measure and record data systematically so that it may be analysed
2. Engage effectively in team work to produce reliable data sets
3. Demonstrate information technology literacy by using online resources to supplement lecture and practical materials
4. Safely engage in laboratory practical classes.

Conveners

• Dr Kate Durrant