Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Unit Catalogue 2010/11 |
BB40195: Conservation biology |
 Credits:
| 6 |
| Level:
| Masters |
| Period: | This unit is available in... |
| Semester 2 |
| Assessment:
| ES30EX70 |
| Supplementary Assessment: | Supplementary assessment information not currently available (this will be added shortly) |
| Requisites:
| Before taking this unit you must take BB20040 |
| Description:
| Aims: To develop an understanding of the practice and theoretical basis of conservation biology, and to explore its drivers, contexts and potential outcomes at local, national and global levels. Learning Outcomes: After taking this course the student should be able to: * define the term biodiversity and explain how it is quantified at different spatial, temporal and organismal scales; * critically evaluate the range of threats to biodiversity and how they operate at different nested scales; * provide a critical overview of the general aims of conservation and how it is implemented through a framework of local action, NGO strategies and national/ international legislation; * provide examples to illustrate how theoretical and practical research within the field of conservation biology underpins the planning, implementation and outcomes of conservation action. Skills: Learning and studying T/F/A, Written communication T/F/A, Oral communication T/F/A, Information handling & retrieval T/F/A, Working independently T/F. Content: This course comprises of a series of lectures, group discussions; and the students will have a chance to carry out simple research-based projects. The topics will include: Measuring biodiversity and threats; Concepts of conservation and sustainable development; Design and Management of Protected Areas; Evolution, genetics and Conservation; Skills for biodiversity management and conservation biologists; Science to underpin conservation action. |