BIO2011

Ecology ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr Dennis O'Dowd

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2005 (Day)
Malaysia First semester 2005 (Day)

Synopsis: Introduction to the science of ecology - the distribution and abundance of organisms and their interactions with their physical and biotic environments. Topics include ecological sampling, ecology of populations; species interactions, including mutualism, competition and predation; community ecology including responses to disturbance, production ecology and materials cycling.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will have gained a basic understanding of ecological principles, theory, and methodology. Students will have gained skills in ecological techniques and be able to critically evaluate their application to particular situations. Students will also gain skills in critical evaluation of key ecological issues, from population regulation to community organization. Skills, including design, analysis, written preparation, and presentation of ecological reports will be developed. Lastly, students will have gained a sound framework for understanding the environment, whether they become a biologist, an engineer, a schoolteacher, or a resource manager.

Assessment: Theory examinations: 60% (mid-semester exam:25%, final exam: 35%) + two 1,500 word project reports: 35% + computer exercise: 5%

Contact Hours: Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical or equivalent

Prohibitions: BIO2051