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EK3303: POPULATION ECOLOGY (2022-2023)

Last modified: 27 Oct 2022 12:10


Course Overview

Students will build on their knowledge of basic ecological theory with a more detailed approach to modelling required to help our understanding of population dynamics.  These models will be considered for their value in setting appropriate management prescriptions for animal and plant populations to achieve objectives for conservation or sustainable use. Students will apply theory learned in lectures and recordings to a series of field- and computer-based exercises. The course will provide the students with valuable analytical skills and an in-depth knowledge and understanding of population dynamics.

Course Details

Study Type Undergraduate Level 3
Session First Sub Session Credit Points 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits)
Campus Aberdeen Sustained Study No
Co-ordinators
  • Dr Clare Trinder

What courses & programmes must have been taken before this course?

What other courses must be taken with this course?

None.

What courses cannot be taken with this course?

Are there a limited number of places available?

No

Course Description

The course helps students to understand factors affecting plant and animal population dynamics.  We will use a range of simple mathematical models representing population growth, competition and predation, which can be used to predict changes in population size. In addition, the course offers practical experience in the collection, handling and interpretation of population data. Throughout the course, concepts are illustrated using examples of populations that are of high conservation importance or which are managed to assure sustainable exploitation.


Contact Teaching Time

Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.

Teaching Breakdown

More Information about Week Numbers


Details, including assessments, may be subject to change until 31 August 2023 for 1st half-session courses and 22 December 2023 for 2nd half-session courses.

Summative Assessments

Written report

Assessment Type Summative Weighting 40
Assessment Weeks Feedback Weeks

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Feedback

Each student will receive individual feedback and a mark for each task. Feedback will be provided as written comments. Groups will also be given generic feedback. A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during practical sessions.

Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
Sorry, we don't have this information available just now. Please check the course guide on MyAberdeen or with the Course Coordinator

Online tests

Assessment Type Summative Weighting 60
Assessment Weeks Feedback Weeks

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Feedback

3 online tests worth 20% each.

Each student will receive individual feedback and a mark for each task. Feedback will be provided as written comments. Groups will also be given generic feedback. A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during practical sessions.

Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
Sorry, we don't have this information available just now. Please check the course guide on MyAberdeen or with the Course Coordinator

Formative Assessment

There are no assessments for this course.

Resit Assessments

Resubmission of failed elements

Assessment Type Summative Weighting
Assessment Weeks Feedback Weeks

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Feedback

Students will repeat whichever elements of the assessment were failed or not completed at first sitting; the marks for elements already passed will be carried forwards.

Learning Outcomes
Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
Sorry, we don't have this information available just now. Please check the course guide on MyAberdeen or with the Course Coordinator

Course Learning Outcomes

Knowledge LevelThinking SkillOutcome
ConceptualUnderstandUnderstand the basic ecological theory and mathematical modelling approaches required to study the dynamics of animal populations, especially those requiring conservation management or being exploited
ProceduralApplyBe able to apply appropriate models to datasets to understand the long-term dynamics of populations
ProceduralEvaluateDevelop writing skills by preparing a data analysis manuscript, interpreting the results and discussing its relevance in relation to theory

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