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Syllabus

BI1434 Forest Ecology and Conservation Biology , 15.0 Credits

Skogsekologi och naturvård

Subjects

Biology

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has less than 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G1F)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

60 credits on basic level of which 30 credits biology of which 7,5 credits in ecology.

Objectives

The course aim is to give students in-depth knowledge and understanding of the ecology of forest ecosystems with a focus on conservation biology.

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• understand and explain basic concepts, concepts and theories in ecology and conservation biology, and apply them in the conservation of forest ecosystems,

• explain loss of biodiversity and species at local, regional and global levels and the main causes behind current trends,

• demonstrate a basic understanding of how data on species and biodiversity is collected and presented, and be able to critically evaluate data from different sources,

• propose conservation and restoration measures in forested landscapes for different species depending on species-specific needs and characteristics – from local and regional to global levels,

• demonstrate an understanding of basic nature conservation ethics and how values and attitudes influence the willingness to support nature conservation measures from local and regional to global levels,

• demonstrate an ability to problematize nature conservation around values other than biodiversity in forest ecosystems from local and regional to global levels

Content

The course provides in-depth knowledge on ecological concepts and theory related to forest ecosystems with a focus on conservation biology. The various levels in ecology, from genes and organisms through to populations, communities and ecosystems, will be covered within the context of major ecological themes while highlighting conservation principles and applications throughout. Ecological theories and their incorporation within conservation biology will be addressed. With the background theory in forest ecology and conservation biology in place, emphasis will turn to conservation challenges, highlighting past and present solutions and their evaluation leading to a main focus on the creative and critical thinking aspects necessary in addressing these challenges.

The course is taught using a variety of methods including lectures, literature seminars, problem-based learning (PBL) exercises, and excursions. PBLs will be organized within groups and will include discussions, synthesis, and presentations.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Written assignment

Oral exam

Written exam

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Responsible department

Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Environmental Studies

Cooperating departments: