BIO3111 - Applied ecology - 2018

This subject explores and evaluates the many ways in which ecological knowledge and concepts can be used to achieve positive outcomes in areas of conservation and natural resource management. It examines the many dimensions of environmental challenges and the tools and approaches for effectively managing natural systems. The unit will focus on a range of issues that are of current importance in both academic research areas and relevant policy areas for Australia and globally. The practical component will consist of three projects that directly relate to lecture content, with an emphasis on developing skills that will be relevant for careers in natural resource management.

On completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Describe the links between natural resource management and the ecological theory on which it is based;
2. Apply the principles of environmental management at local, regional, national and global scales;
3. Employ tools to assist in making robust management decisions and assess their strengths and weaknesses;
4. Evaluate the need to cater for genetic variation and evolutionary potential;
5. Assess the social, economic, ethical and political considerations of resource management, and how they impact decisions.

Examination (2 hours): 60%

Practical reports (three, 10% each): 30%

Quizzes (five, 2% each): 10%

• Two 1-hour lectures and 3 hours laboratory work per week

See also Unit timetable information

Ecology and conservation biology

Environmental science

Zoology