BSc Ecology and Wildlife Conservation

Title:

Ecology and Environmental Management

Code:

AP1AE15

Convenor:

MS Rebecca Jerrome

Summary:

This module is designed to introduce students to interactions between human activity and components of the natural environment, methods for monitoring and assessing this and how such scientific information is used in devising management strategies. 
PLEASE NOTE PLACES ON THIS MODULE ARE RESTRICTED AND PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO BSc ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT AND BSc ECOLOGY AND WILDLIFE CONSERVATION STUDENTS.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Animal Behaviour

Code:

BI1AB1

Convenor:

PROF Richard Sibly

Summary:

Ever wondered what science underlies commentaries to wildlife documentaries? Here you’ll learn the scientific methods used to study animal behaviour, the principal theories underlying its study, and how facts are established from systematic observations and experiments. Key topics are the effects of nature vs nurture, the theory of the selfish gene, why animals fight and why and when they help each other. Practicals illustrate research methods, and classic documentary films illustrate key points in lectures.

Assessment Method:

Exam 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Introduction to Evolutionary Processes

Code:

BI1EAD1

Convenor:

DR Louise Johnson

Summary:

• To provide an overview of evolution that is accessible to first year students from diverse backgrounds. • To describe evolutionary processes, emphasising the forces that cause and hinder change, and some of the major patterns that result. • To introduce diverse approaches for the study of genetic and phenotypic evolution. • To demonstrate how evolutionary perspective is fundamental and improves understanding of diverse areas of modern biology. • To introduce students to the process of developing, testing and refining.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Ecology

Code:

BI1EC2

Convenor:

DR Manuela Gonzalez-Suarez

Summary:

Do you want to learn about ecological concepts AND get your hands dirty in the field and lab? Then this module is for you. During lectures you will learn about how species interact with each other and their environment, how biodiversity assembles in communities and forms entire ecosystems, and how human activities are influencing many ecological processes. During practical sessions you will learn how to identify species and use sampling techniques such as e-DNA and camera traps to collect and then analyse your own data. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Report 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Key Skills in Ecology and Zoology

Code:

BI1EZ12

Convenor:

DR Chris Jones

Summary:

Alongside gaining in-depth biological knowledge in other modules, developing transferrable skills is essential for your development as a Biologist. This module focuses on providing a common foundation in transferable skills relevant to increasing success whilst studying at university and in future careers.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Global Sustainability: Challenges and Prospects

Code:

AP1A28

Convenor:

DR Nick Bardsley

Summary:

The world faces multiple ecological crises, including climate change, biodiversity loss and soil erosion. This module examines such challenges, their drivers, their relationship to other social and economic issues, and potential responses. 

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Current Topics in Zoology and Ecology

Code:

BI1BEA2

Convenor:

DR Phil Baker

Summary:

Ecology and zoology are increasingly important in terms of our humanity; there is little of global importance which is not touched by them. If we take a personal perspective, zoology informs our understanding of how we evolved as a species, why we have many of the behaviours that we do, why we love and fight, breed, get ill and die. If we take a less self-focused approach, ecology and evolutionary biology tell us how life achieved the present spectacle of diversity to reach every corner of the planet, and how organisms adapt so that life succeeds. Beyond that, biology helps us predict the future, from the effects of population growth and the consequences of over-exploiting natural resources, to helping us nourish and protect future generations. Almost everything that matters is affected by biology, and at Reading our research informs this growing understanding. This module will introduce students to some of the ideas which inform current and future zoology and ecology through keyhole presentations by staff in Biological Sciences.

Assessment Method:

Class test 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Building Blocks of Life

Code:

BI1BEC1

Convenor:

PROF Phillip Dash

Summary:

Genes and cells are the fundamental building blocks of all life. All life is made up of cells and their function is controlled by genes. In this module we will introduce students to the dynamic nature of the cell and major concepts in cell biology and genetics. Microbial, animal and plant cell structures are examined and compared during a tour of the structure and function of the major organelles. The module also provides an overview of major cellular processes including energy production, cell death, cell communication, photosynthesis, stem cells, organization of cells into tissues and how cells survive extreme environments. Alongside this understanding of cells we will also examine genetics and genetic tools to understand transcription and translation, inheritance and evolution, gene regulation and key experimental techniques such as genetic engineering.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Class test 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Animal Diversity

Code:

BI1EAB1

Convenor:

PROF Amanda Callaghan

Summary:

Crazy about animals? Then this is the module for you! You will be taken through the evolution of animal life on Earth, from over half a billion years ago to the present, introducing the main animal groups that represent over 95% of all animal life. You will develop zoology-specific skills which include recognizing features that classify animals into phyla and an overview of differences in body form and function. Supported by the Cole Museum of Zoology to which you have free access, the Animal Diversity module provides a taxonomic foundation on which to lay future studies on mammals in part 1 and invertebrate and vertebrate zoology in part 2.  

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Practical 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Mammals: diversity, behaviour & conservation

Code:

BI1ED2

Convenor:

DR Phil Baker

Summary:

Through lectures, this course will provide a thorough knowledge of the evolution of and behavioural diversity within the Class Mammalia, with particular emphasis on the Order Carnivora. In addition, the course will consider issues relating to mammal conservation including the impact of invasive species, the bushmeat trade, wildlife diseases and climate change. Individual students will examine one aspect in more depth through the preparation and presentation of a scientific poster.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Assignment 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Plant Diversity, Structure and Utilisation

Code:

BI1EG1

Convenor:

PROF Julie Hawkins

Summary:

In this module we'll discover the diversity of organisms that photosynthesise, then we'll focus in on the plants that we depend on most for food and even the air we breathe, the flowering plants (Angiosperms). We will explore the diversity of the plants in our supermarket trolleys, and in the gardens and wild places around us. Taking a walk or going shopping may never be the same again... We'll consider the value of plants from different perspectives, taking in ecosystem services, biofuels and drugs. Plants have always provided the materials for our basic needs; in this choosing this module will open up the  relationships of plants, people and planet. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 15%, Report 15%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Ancient Greek 1

Code:

CL1G1

Convenor:

PROF Amy Smith

Summary:

This module aims to teach students some elements of the Ancient Greek language and give them skills to read Ancient Greek at an elementary level.

Assessment Method:

Class test 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Latin 1 (C)

Code:

CL1L1

Convenor:

MRS Jackie Baines

Summary:

This module aims to teach students some elements of the Latin language and give them skills to read Latin at an elementary level.

Assessment Method:

Class test 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Wildlife Documentary: Ecology and Representation

Code:

FT1WD

Convenor:

DR Adam O'Brien

Summary:

This module gives you the opportunity to study wildlife documentaries, and filmmaking addressing ecological issues. You will engage with the relevant critical vocabulary and contextual knowledge to explore how meanings on screen are made. Case studies may include David Attenborough’s landmark BBC series, nature documentaries such as March of the Penguins, and climate change films such as An Inconvenient Truth. There may be a Q&A with a guest speaker from the creative industries. 

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Oral 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Introduction to Environmental Science

Code:

GV1B1

Convenor:

DR Hazel McGoff

Summary:

The module provides an overview of the scope of Environmental Science, and introduces the scientific processes that control and affect our environment.

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Assignment 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Soils in the Environment

Code:

GV1E1

Convenor:

DR Steve Robinson

Summary:

This module provides an introduction to the wide ranging scientific processes that explain why soils are so variable in terms of their properties and functions in the wider environment.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Report 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Methods in Ecology and Environmental Management

Code:

AP2AE45

Convenor:

PROF Simon Mortimer

Summary:

Develop the skills necessary to gather, interpret and present information about the natural environment. Learn through lectures, seminars, computer practicals, laboratory practicals and field visits. Take the opportunity to design and implement an ecological field experiment, to carry out ecological survey work and to develop skills in statistical analysis and GIS.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 30%, Practical 35%, Report 35%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Invertebrate Zoology

Code:

BI2EI4

Convenor:

DR Christopher Foster

Summary:

Invertebrates – animals without backbones – are the most successful and diverse eukaryotic organisms. This module will consider the range and diversity of invertebrates, as well as reviewing invertebrate anatomical and physiological ‘systems through a functional or thematic approach.

The main aim of this module is to introduce you to the aquatic and terrestrial animals without backbones as the most successful and diverse grouping of eukaryotic organisms.

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Set exercise 20%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Introduction to Entomology

Code:

BI2EX5

Convenor:

DR Christopher Foster

Summary:

Care about biodiversity and conservation? Then you need to know all about the little things that drive the world! Insects represent over 80% of animal diversity and should not be ignored; as animals they are important in their own right. This module will introduce you to entomology, the science of insects. You will not appreciate insects if you don’t know anything about them and wouldn’t spot them if they flew right by you. The module emphasises identification as well as understanding their life cycle and ecology, structure and function. There will be lots of hands on work and fun lectures. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Class test 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Key Skills in Ecology and Zoology 2

Code:

BI2EZ45

Convenor:

DR Renee Lee

Summary:

This module will provide students with tutorials and lectures in transferrable skills relevant to study and future careers in Zoology and Ecology and related professions. These will include generic skills and also subject specific skills, and the content will build on and enhance the skills covered in key skills 1.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Introduction to Bioinformatics & Computational Biology

Code:

BI2BT5

Convenor:

PROF Liam McGuffin

Summary:

Bioinformatics is an essential part of modern biology. This module will provide students with introduction to the key concepts of bioinformatics and computational biology and it is aimed at second or third year students. The knowledge and core bioinformatics techniques that are taught will help to equip students with the vital computational and programming skills that are required for successful careers in many fields of modern biology. The module does not have any prerequisites and it will use practical examples to demonstrate the power of bioinformatics for enhancing research across the biological sciences at all levels; from molecular and cellular biology to zoology and ecology.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 10%, Project 50%, Report 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Biodiversity: Exploiters and Exploited

Code:

BI2EEE4

Convenor:

PROF Julie Hawkins

Summary:

This module will introduce you to diverse organisms through discussion of selected fascinating case studies. From the smallest bacteria in biofouling, through invertebrates such as locusts, plants including bracken, sugar cane and oak, into the vertebrates through red kite and wolf. The link is that all these species either are exploited by us or exploit us (some do both!). Through the stories of these organisms and their interaction with us, you will discover many of the principles of species biology and come across many problems that we still have to solve in our interactions with other species.

Assessment Method:

Exam 60%, Assignment 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

UK Biodiversity Field Skills

Code:

BI2EJFC

Convenor:

DR Christopher Foster

Summary:

This one-week residential field course provides an immersive introduction to essential biodiversity field skills, in an inspirational setting at the heart of a National Nature Reserve. The course aims to enhance your appreciation for British wildlife as well as offer experience of survey techniques that are vital for careers in ecology, zoology and wildlife conservation. You’ll learn to survey and identify birds, mammals, invertebrates and plants in a fantastic range of habitats from coastal vegetation to ancient woodland. There may also be an opportunity to look for protected species such as bats, dormice, badgers and otters.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Management of Vertebrate Pests

Code:

BI2EMV4

Convenor:

DR Phil Baker

Summary:

This module will provide an introduction to the ways that certain vertebrate species interact with people and how the problems resulting from these interactions are dealt with.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Class test 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Reptiles and Dinosaurs

Code:

BI2ERD4

Convenor:

DR Brian Pickles

Summary:

This module will provide an introduction to the study of reptilian biology from understanding their taxonomy, diversity, ecology, physiological adaptions and their conservation. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Venoms and Poisons

Code:

BI2EVP5

Convenor:

PROF Phillip Dash

Summary:

This module aims to provide the student with a comprehensive overview of venoms and poisons, including an introduction to important venomous and poisonous animals and poisonous plants, including the role of the venoms or poisons for defence or predation. This module will cover the evolution of venoms and poisons, the biochemistry underpinning their synthesis and mechanism of action, general principles of toxicology and an overview of their medical uses.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Birds: Diversity, Behaviour and Conservation

Code:

BI2EY5

Convenor:

DR Christopher Foster

Summary:

From ancient mythology to modern ornithology, birds have captured the imagination of people for thousands of years. This module will introduce the fabulous diversity of bird life, taking a closer look at their evolutionary origin, anatomy, behaviour and conservation through a series of engaging lectures on topics such as feathers, flight and migration. Practical sessions in the lab and field, along with a coursework assignment, will provide hands-on experience of ornithology offering the chance to develop science communication and field skills. The Cole Museum collections and the fantastic bird habitats on Whiteknights campus will be used to support teaching on this module.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Set exercise 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Marine Biology and Conservation

Code:

BI2MARBC

Convenor:

DR Glyn Barrett

Summary:

This module will introduce students to the range of marine habitats, environments and associated biodiversity present within the biosphere. The module will provide an introduction to the major physical and chemical mechanisms underpinning oceanic processes. Lectures will cover key aspects of the biology, ecology and environmental physiology of marine organisms across several domains and major phyla of life. In addition, and with a focus on the ecological impacts of human activities, the module will explore threats to marine and coastal ecosystems and examine methods in monitoring and surveying techniques for the study, management and conservation of these ecosystems.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Project 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Nature Conservation in Practice

Code:

BI2NCP5

Convenor:

DR Campbell Murn

Summary:

This module aims to introduce students to the realities of nature conservation in practice. Using examples from the field, the module aims to provide students with an understanding of the inherent conflicts and challenges associated with nature conservation. We aim to develop effective tools and methods and encourage students to accept and address these challenges. By emphasising an evidence-based decision-making framework, students will gain an understanding of how data-driven conclusions can generate conservation priorities at the same time as understanding the realities faced by conservation practitioners in complex modern settings.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 40%, Class test 10%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Practical Animal Behaviour

Code:

BI2PAB

Convenor:

DR Phil Baker

Summary:

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the principles and methods of quantitative studies of animal behaviour, with an emphasis on techniques of observation, recording and analysis. Attention is given to how and why central hypotheses are formulated, how experiments are designed to distinguish between hypotheses, and how the results are analysed and interpreted.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Project 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Summer Placement

Code:

BI2PLA

Convenor:

DR Renee Lee

Summary:

In a competitive job market, understanding how the professional work place functions, along with well developed employability skills are essential to securing future employment. In this module, students will undertake a short placement within a relevant company or organisation. This is an excellent opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience of the working world, improve and diversify their skills as well as enhancing their curriculum vitae. Students will be supported in finding their own placement, a useful skill for seeking out future employment opportunities.

Assessment Method:

Oral 20%, Report 80%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 1

Code:

ED2TS1

Convenor:

DR Caroline Foulkes

Summary:

This module enables undergraduate students to develop key transferable skills needed for employment, and also provides outreach experience. Following specialist training on key aspects of working in schools, five day placements in June/July in secondary schools in the Reading area will provide work experience in a professional setting.

In the autumn, students will build on the knowledge and transferable skills acquired in order to plan and deliver, with colleagues, a teaching session that shares knowledge of their degree specialism with small groups of school students. Students will reflect on, and share, their experiences with their colleagues. Assessment will be by coursework, and placement supervisor report on professionalism and engagement.

Students will be selected by application and interview.

Please be aware that once the placement has been completed in June it is not possible to switch from this module in the Autumn Term as students have completed practical activities directly relating to 50% of the mark (professionalism and portfolio) and that link to the activities in the Autumn Term.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 2

Code:

ED2TS2

Convenor:

DR Caroline Foulkes

Summary:

This module enables undergraduate students to develop key transferable skills needed for employment, and also provides outreach experience. Following specialist training on key aspects of working in schools, ten day placements in June/July in secondary schools in the Reading area will provide work experience in a professional setting.

In the autumn, students will build on the knowledge and transferable skills acquired in order to plan and deliver, with colleagues, a teaching session that shares knowledge of their degree specialism with small groups of school students. Students will reflect on, and share, their experiences with their colleagues. Assessment will be by coursework, and placement supervisor report on professionalism and engagement.

Students will be selected by application and interview.

Please be aware that once the placement has been completed in June it is not possible to switch from this module in the Autumn Term as students have completed practical activities directly relating to 50% of the mark (Professionalism and portfolio) and that link to activities in the Autumn Term.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Wildlife and Farming

Code:

AP3AE75

Convenor:

PROF Simon Mortimer

Summary:

Identify and explore the interrelationship between farming practice and the abundance and distribution of wildlife in the countryside. Through lectures, seminars, groupwork and study visits, examine the history of the relationship between wildlife and farming, the population and community ecology of plants, invertebrates and vertebrates in agricultural ecosystems, management to promote biodiversity in farmland, and the role of biodiversity in delivering ecosystem services. Learn how modifying farming practice can encourage wildlife on the farm and appraise recent policy mechanisms.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Conservation Biology

Code:

BI3EW8

Convenor:

DR Graham Holloway

Summary:

This module aims to provide students with an understanding of the science of conservation biology and its use in the sustainable management of genes, species, communities and habitats.

Assessment Method:

Exam 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Research Project

Code:

BI3PRO

Convenor:

DR Renee Lee

Summary:

The aim of project work is to provide the student with an experience of biological research through the design and execution of an individual project.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Selected Topics in Animal Behaviour

Code:

BI3AB7

Convenor:

PROF Richard Sibly

Summary:

Animal Behaviour is an evolving science. This course builds on the foundation of courses in parts 1 and 2 to investigate some of the most exciting recent findings in animal behaviour research, including some that have been the subject of TV documentaries. Using an evolutionary framework we examine topics such as how animals solve problems, how they choose mates, and how animals react to unfairness within their social group. Then over several weeks student-led seminars look at progress that has been made in selected areas of animal behaviour research. Please note this course is capped at 35 students.

Assessment Method:

Exam 70%, Oral 30%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Ecology of Urban Areas

Code:

BI3EUA

Convenor:

DR Phil Baker

Summary:

Through lectures this course will provide a detailed knowledge of the ecology of urban areas, both in the context of urban areas in the wider landscape as well as ecology within urban areas.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Palaeoecology Research Field Course

Code:

BI3PRFC

Convenor:

DR Brian Pickles

Summary:

A unique research-focused field course hosted between the University of Reading and the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Canada. This field course will involve one week of intensive training in palaeontological statistical and practical methods followed by two weeks of fieldwork in the Badlands of Alberta, including field surveys and fossil extraction in Dinosaur Provincial Park. Note that the field work is physically demanding. This module will provide excellent practical and academic skills training for students considering a research career.
 

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Seminars in Biology

Code:

BI3S78

Convenor:

DR Louise Johnson

Summary:

This module utilises seminar series in SBS and other relevant Schools. Students will attend their choice of ten or more life science research seminars throughout the academic year, and write and submit a report for each. Assessment will be based on three assignments: an MCQ test on experimental design and statistics; a Summary Paragraph based on a result presented at a seminar; and a portfolio of seminar reports accompanied by a synoptic essay.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 80%, Class test 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Zoonotic Epidemiology

Code:

BI3ZE8

Convenor:

DR Francoise Mazet

Summary:

Zoonotic diseases (or Zoonoses) are defined as diseases which can be transmitted to humans from animals. Diseases which originate from wildlife or livestock either as hosts or vectors pose significant issues for the health and well-being of people, companion animals as well as other livestock and wild animals. Through a series of lectures this course will provide: 1) A detailed background and knowledge of a range of zoonotic disease-causing organisms, their hosts and vectors, symptoms associated with zoonoses and their impact on human health and the economy; 2) Understanding of the co-evolution of hosts and diseases; 3) The control of zoonotic diseases through management of disease agents, their hosts and vectors and 4) The role of epidemiological modelling in devising effective management strategies. Specific examples of zoonotic diseases discussed within the module will include, but not be confined to: Influenza A, Covid-19, Lyme disease, Malaria, Ebola, rabies and plague.

Students will be expected to read scientific papers as indicated by the lecturers and will be tested on their understanding of the methodologies and results through a set test. Students will examine one aspect in depth through the preparation of an essay on a defined topic.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 30%, Set exercise 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 3

Code:

ED3TS3

Convenor:

DR Caroline Foulkes

Summary:

This module enables undergraduate students to develop key transferable skills needed for employment, and also provides outreach experience. Following specialist training on key aspects of working in schools, five day placements in June/July in secondary schools in the Reading area will provide work experience in a professional setting.

In the autumn, students will build on the knowledge and transferable skills acquired in order to plan and deliver, with colleagues, a teaching session that shares knowledge of their degree specialism with small groups of school pupils. Students will reflect on, and share, their experiences with their colleagues. Assessment will be by coursework, and placement supervisor report on professionalism and engagement.

Students will be selected by application and interview.

Please be aware that once the placement has been completed in June it is not possible to switch from this module in the Autumn Term as students have completed practical activities directly relating to 50% of the mark (professionalism and portfolio) and that link to activities in the Autumn Term.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Title:

Development of transferable skills through a school placement 4

Code:

ED3TS4

Convenor:

DR Caroline Foulkes

Summary:

This module enables undergraduate students to develop key transferable skills needed for employment, and also provides outreach experience. Following specialist training on key aspects of working in schools, ten day placements in June/July in secondary schools in the Reading area will provide work experience in a professional setting.

In the autumn, students will build on the knowledge and transferable skills acquired in order to plan and deliver, with colleagues, a teaching session that shares knowledge of their degree specialism with small groups of school pupils. Students will reflect on, and share, their experiences with their colleagues. Assessment will be by coursework, and placement supervisor report on professionalism and engagement.

Students will be selected by application and interview.

Please be aware that once the placement has been completed in June it is not possible to switch from this module in the Autumn Term as students have completed practical activities directly relating to 50% of the mark (Professionalism and portfolio) and that link to activities in the Autumn Term.

Assessment Method:

Practical 10%, Oral 50%, Portfolio 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.