Module Specifications..
Current Academic Year 2023 - 2024
Please note that this information is subject to change.
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Description Homosapiens (humans) are but just one of the species that exist on Earth. Although scientific estimates vary, it is suggested that there are at least another 8.7 million species on Earth, many of which still remain undiscovered. Understanding and maintaining the diversity of species on Earth is crucial if we are to ensure the survival, health and wellbeing of current and future generations of all species, including humans. This module introduces students to the relationship between plants and animals and their living and physical environments (ecology). It also examines geographic distribution patterns globally (biogeography). These aspects are explored over a range of temporal (past, present, future) and spatial (local, regional, global) scales. Students will subsequently gain an insight into the key concepts, theories, terminology, and debates within the related fields of biogeography and ecology. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Explain the key terms, definitions, and concepts that form the basis of ecology and biogeography 2. Identify how physical (e.g. light, temperature, moisture, soils) and biological (e.g. predation, competition) factors influence the distribution of, and interaction between, plants and animals across space and time 3. Explain the importance of spatial and temporal scales in biogeography and ecology 4. Categorise the major biomes on Earth and understand their interconnected nature 5. Define the concept of biodiversity, how it is measured, and how/why it varies across Earth 6. Examine how past geological, climatic, and evolutionary factors influence current biogeographical patterns 7. Recognise how ecological and biogeographical theories can support conservation policy and strategy in relation to present and future threats such as deforestation, biodiversity loss, and climate change | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Energy flowsEnergy flows, trophic levels and biogeochemical cyclesDistribution of organismsPhysical parameters that control distribution of organismsBiological factorsBiological factors that influence organismsConcepts and theoriesKey ecological and biogeographical concepts and theoriesHierarchyHierarchy of ecological systemsPatternsExamining recent and geological past to explain current patterns of biodiversity distributionBiogeographyIsland biogeographyBiodiversityBiodiversity patterns, gradients, controlsPalaeoecologyPrinciples and applications of palaeoecologyEcosystemNatural versus anthropogenic ecosystem disturbanceConservationConservation challenges | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes
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