ENVB20050 Principles of Environmental Biology & Ecology

Academic Year 2020/2021

Environmental biology is a multidisciplinary subject that addresses fundamental aspects of ecology to inform us on how ecosystems respond to a changing world and related pressures. This module includes both lectures and associated practical classes that introduce students to the key principles of environmental biology and the essential information required to address global as well as local environmental issues. A detailed outline of the fundamental factors that determine the structure and function of terrestrial, freshwater and marine ecosystems is provided using case studies and examples to demonstrate how ecological knowledge is used to address environmental problems such as climate change, water pollution, over-exploitation of biological resources and invasive species.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of this module students should be able to:
• Appreciate and communicate the application of ecological information in addressing environmental issues
• Demonstrate an understanding of key concepts in ecology
• Identify the factors affecting biota in different ecosystems
• Describe the physical environment of terrestrial and aquatic systems
• Carry out basic estimations of population parameters
• Identify the major groups of terrestrial, freshwater and marine invertebrates
• Use taxonomic identification aids and handle biological samples that have been collected to obtain relevant data from the samples
• Compile, compare and interpret results
• Read a scientific paper and write an abstract


Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24
Practical

16
Autonomous Student Learning

85
Total

125
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures and practicals 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Incompatibles:
ENVB20010 - Ecology: Populations


 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Open Book Exam Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade
Practical Examination: Two one-hour practical exams Varies over the Trimester n/a Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No

20
Examination: One written exam 2 hour End of Trimester Exam No Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No

60
Continuous Assessment: Laboratory assignments Varies over the Trimester n/a Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No

20

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Autumn Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Students will be given class feedback post assessment

Name Role
Dr Jan-Robert Baars Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Assoc Professor Jens Carlsson Lecturer / Co-Lecturer
Professor Mary Kelly-Quinn Lecturer / Co-Lecturer