Registry
Module Specifications
Archived Version 2018 - 2019
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Description In this module the student will be introduced to ecology with particular emphasis on plant ecology and environmental microbiology. The student will work in the laboratory and in the field. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate practical knowledge on sampling techniques 2. understand the importance of laboratory safety and care of equipment 3. carry out modern laboratory practices in the study of environmental processes and samples 4. appreciate the requirements of record keeping, report writing and oral communications 5. combine theory and practical approaches to problem-solving in the laboratory 6. analyse experimental data using statistics 7. experience the demands of working within groups. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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 Assessment of a river water quality - based on macroinvertebrate dataFieldtrip* to sample aquatic invertebrates from Tolka river at Lucan; analysis of sampled material (identification of aquatic animals using keys and charts) determining of Biotic Index – devised by EPA Ireland river Quality index; writing a final report.. Bio test: toxicity of household cleaning solutions to certain test plant species.Setting up biotest using two common aquatic plant species (a moss Fontinalis antypyretica and a duck weed) to test toxicity of household liquids (washing up liquid, domestos etc..); comparison of toxicity of the chemicals to the plants tested. Calculation of LC50 and using Student T-test to check potency of the chemicals used. Writing a final report.Estimation of phytoplankton concentration in samples of pond and river waterFieldtrip to sample river water for phytoplankton analysis, preparation of water samples for analysis- using sedimentation method, estimation of phytoplankton concentration (diatom) using Sedgwick-Rafter counting chamber. Identification of common species using keys and charts provided. Comparison of two different aquatic habitats in respect of phytoplankton concentration and diversity. Writing a final report.Estimation of Chlorophyll a in river water samplesSampling water for chlorophyll a analysis. Preparation of samples: pigment extraction. Spectrophotometric determination of chlorophyll a concentration using DMSO. Interpretation of results, writing final report.Microbiological techniquesUse of selective and differential media to distinguish between bacteriaMicrobiological analysis of waterAerobic colony count using the spread plate techniqueGlucose assayThe GOD-PAP assayBacterial identificationUse of colony and cell characteristics, biochemical testing including API strips for bacterial identification | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List
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Other Resources None | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Programme or List of Programmes |
ESH | BSc Environmental Science & Tech |
EST | BSc in Environmental Science & Tech |
- See the module specification for BE256 in 2003 - 2004
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