Ecology and Field Studies

Rationale

An understanding of the ecological principles which underpin both natural and managed ecosystems is vital for a full understanding of the countryside as a recreational and teaching resource. Furthermore, direct multi-sensory experiences are an ideal way of engaging with the natural heritage and the physical environment. Awareness of the potential impact of outdoor recreational and educational activities is also important for those who work in the countryside, and increasingly an expectation of such educational programmes. In many outdoor and environmental education contexts techniques ranging from formal field studies through to experiential environmental exercises are employed. This course provides an understanding of the principles of ecology, and explores the application of a wide range of teaching techniques in a practical context. The approach taken is normally an interdisciplinary and holistic residential programme normally located in a National Nature Reserve on the West Coast of Scotland.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the course students will:

understand basic ecological principles as applied to global and local ecosystems;
understand relevant aspects of natural selection, adaptation, population growth etc. and the effect on these of climate and human impact;
be able to apply an understanding of ecological principles to issues of environmental concern;
have experienced and used a variety of 'modern experiential' and 'traditional' field studies techniques during practical investigations of a range of natural and managed terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems;
be familiar with aspects of the preservation and management of natural and semi-natural habitats of conservation importance;
understand the rationale behind and the practical consequences and management of key aspects of legislation which protects the natural heritage (eg in National Nature Reserves, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Special Areas of Conservation etc);
be able to make critical evaluations of appropriate techniques and develop a teaching programme suitable for introducing others to ecology and environment.

Teaching, Learning & Assessment Strategies

The course will be based primarily on field experience (traditionally on the Island of Rum, Inner Hebrides), supported with a range of lectures, seminars and discussions. Practical teaching sessions will include a range of techniques appropriate for the habitats available during the course. These activities will be discussed and reviewed and additional theoretical input will support student learning. Students will be expected to complete background reading and independent study in order to meet the level required to complete the course successfully.

Indicative Content

Ecological principles: energy flow, trophic levels, nutrient cycling etc
Populations: natural selection and speciation, population dynamics
Communities, habitats, feeding relationships, biological diversity
Biotic and abiotic influences on communities
Influence of European legislation on the landscape
Preservation and management of the natural heritage
Traditional field studies survey and sampling techniques appropriate to a range of terrestrial and aquatic habitats
Experiential environmental education techniques (their use and critical evaluation)
Design, practice and evaluation of selected outdoor sessions

Assessment

Satisfactory completion of a log of field studies activity is a requirement of this course. In addition either (a) develop and critically evaluate appropriate resources or a short programme of field studies appropriate to a selected group, or (b) write an essay on a relevant aspect of environmental management (4000-5000 words or equivalent).

Credit Rating

20 SM (Scottish Masters) Level Credits