Department of Biology & Biochemistry, Unit Catalogue 2008/09 |
BB30156 Conservation biology |
| Credits: 6 |
| Level: Honours |
| Semester: 2 |
| Assessment: ES 20%, EX 70%, SM 10% |
| Requisites: |
| Before taking this unit you must take BB20040 |
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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 students should be able to: * Define the term biodiversity and explain how it is quantified at different spatial, temporal and organismal scales. * Describe the range of threats to biodiversity and how they operate at different nested scales. * Provide an 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. 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. |