Conservation Biology

Overview

The objective of this module is to provide an awareness of conservation issues worldwide, and built an understanding of the different approaches that exist to approach these issues.
Students will learn the basics of Conservation Biology in a way that is tailored for the different pathways taking the course. Learning outcomes (see below) take a logical, sequential approach that go from defining and measuring biodiversity, understanding the threats to its maintenance, and ways to protect it (with protected areas and/or sustainable management). A strong interactive and critical thinking component will be emphasized, with a discussion of Conservation Biology as a field (why do we do it?) and topical conservation debates (group activity, first assignment).

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, a student should be able to:
LO1 Appreciate the different facets of biodiversity
LO2 Critically discuss drivers of species and population decline
LO3 Evaluate contrasting conservation practices
LO4: Demonstrate the ability to work as part of a team
LO5: Demonstrate critical thinking and problem solving ability.
LO6: Demonstrate the ability to construct a clear argument and engage in debate.

Skills

S1 ability to interrogate and comprehend scientific literature
S2 critical thinking utilizing the theory and major concepts learnt during their course of study
S3 oral and written communication to argue sides to a topic
S4 work in teams

Assessment

Must submit all elements of coursework. To pass, students must score a minimum of 40% in the combined continuous assessment elements, AND achieve a minimum score of 40% in the written examination.