ANIMAL POPULATION ECOLOGY

ANIMAL POPULATION ECOLOGY
Course Code
ZO 3305
Credit Points
15
Course Coordinator
Dr G Pierce, Dr L De Raad

Pre-requisites

BI 2001

Co-requisites

None

Notes

This course extends over six weeks; it is available only to students in year 3 of their programme.

Overview

This course deals with the basic ecological theory and modelling approaches required to study population dynamics, especially those populations which have importance for conservation consideration, management or exploitation. The formal tools used to describe population change in continuous and fragmented populations are explored. The complexity of reproductive strategies found in the animal kingdom as well as their implication for harvesting of species are presented.

Structure

2 two-hour lectures per week, 2 one-hour lectures per week, 5 three-hour practicals over 6 weeks. Total contact hours approximately 51.

Assessment

To pass this course, a pass must be achieved in BOTH the theory exam and the in-course assessment.

1st Attempt: 1 two-hour written examination for all candidates (50%) and in-course assessment (50%).

Resit: 1 two-hour written examination (100%); this may contain material from both the practical and lecture components of the course.

Formative Assessment

A strong emphasis will be made throughout the course on informal verbal feedback during practical sessions.

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.