MAOK4001 Concepts in ecology
- Number of credits5
- Teaching semester2025 Autumn
- Language of instructionEnglish
- CampusEvenstad
- Required prerequisite knowledge
None.
The course introduces the students to the complexity of central topics in ecological theory, with focus on evolution, behavioural ecology, population biology and community ecology. This course will go beyond the introductory level ecology and provide insights into more complex issues. Training in reading research publications and reports, and critically reviewing the aim, methods, and conclusions. The students will collect their own data in the field and be introduced to study design and learn how to discuss results from ecological studies.
Learning Outcome
After successful completion of the course, the student will have the following knowledge, skills, and general competence.
The student
- Has a broad understanding of the complexity of central concepts in ecological theory, with emphasis on evolution, behavioural ecology, population biology, and community ecology.
The student
- Can read, understand, and discuss scientific literature within the field of ecology.
- Can analyze and deal critically with various sources of information and use them to structure and formulate scholarly arguments.
The student
- Can evaluate ecological research in light of ecological theory.
- Can communicate and discuss the application of ecological theory in practical conservation and management.
Lectures, seminars, field work, and writing assignments. Seminars will include presentations and discussions by student groups.
- One written group report, with grade adjusted with oral defence (40%)
- Individual written exam (60%)
Performance is assessed using a grading scale from A-F, where E is the lowest passing grade. All examinations must be passed in order for the course to be assessed as passed.
| Form of assessment | Grading scale | Grouping | Duration of assessment | Support materials | Proportion | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Written assignment | ECTS - A-F | Individual | 40 | |||
Written examination with invigilation | ECTS - A-F | Individual | 60 |