BIOL2909 Lecture 1: BIOL2909 Introduction Notes
Intro to Terrestrial Field Ecology
(Adv) - BIOL2909
Year - 2018
This unit has the same objectives as BIOL2009 Terrestrial Field Ecology, and is suitable for qualified
students who wish to pursue certain aspects at a more advanced level. Entry is restricted, and
selection is made from the applicants on the basis of their previous performance. Students taking
this unit of study will participate in alternatives to some elements of the standard course and will be
required to pursue the objectives by more independent means. Specific details of this unit of study
and assessment will be announced in meetings with students at the beginning of the unit. This
intensive field-based course provides a practical introduction in the experimental analysis of
terrestrial populations and assemblages. The experience is best suited to students who will continue
into senior units of study in ecology. Students learn a broad range of ecological sampling techniques
and develop a detailed understanding of the logical requirements necessary for manipulative
ecological field experiments. The field work takes place in native forest and incorporates survey
techniques for plants, small mammals and other fauna and thus provides a good background for
ecological consulting work and an introduction into large-scale project management. Students attend
a week-long field course and participate in a large-scale research project as part of a large team as
well as conducting a research project that they design with a small group of students. Emphasis is
placed on critical thinking in the context of environmental management and technical skills are
developed in the area of data handling and analysis, report writing and team work. Invited experts
contribute to the lectures and discussions on issues relating to the ecology, conservation and
management of Australia's terrestrial flora and fauna.
Classes
Note: One 6-day field trip held in the pre-semester break and four 4-hour practical classes during
weeks 1-4 of semester 2
Assessment
Discussions and quiz (10%), research project proposal and brief presentation (10%), sampling
project report (20%), specimen collection (10%), research project report (50%)
Additional information
This unit requires School permission to enrol; please see the School of Life and Environmental
Sciences website for details on how to apply. Entry into the unit is based on placement availability
and selection is competitive based on academic performance in the pre-requisite units of study.
Academic performance in any intermediate BIOL units of study may also be considered.
Assumed knowledge
Basic experimental design and statistical analysis.
Prohibitions
BIOL2009 or BIOL3009 or BIOL3909
