Coral Reef Ecology Field Course (Master) (851C1)
Coral Reef Ecology Field Course (Masters)
Module 851C1
Module details for 2023/24.
30 credits
FHEQ Level 7 (Masters)
Module Outline
Coral reefs are one of the most ecologically and economically important habitats on the planet. They have exceptional levels of biodiversity, are critical to the life-history and development of many pelagic as well as reef-associated marine species, and provide critical ecosystem services upon which many human communities rely. However, coral reefs are also globally threatened from direct human activities and the indirect impact of climate change. Coral reefs therefore provide both an exceptional setting to learn about marine ecology, and also one for which there is a real and urgent need for an improved understanding to inform policy and conservation management strategies. This field course will be involve scuba and snorkel-based data collection at coral reefs, giving students the opportunity to learn and apply techniques from marine biology, develop and test scientific hypotheses, and gain an in-depth understanding of the unique ecosystem of coral reefs.
Module learning outcomes
Research, synthesise and utilise the primary scientific literature on coral reef ecology and marine biology to generate research hypotheses and identify appropriate scientific methods to test these hypotheses
Select and apply appropriate scientific methods to collect and analyse field data to address specific research questions in coral reef ecology and marine biology. Also, demonstrate critical awareness of the issues limiting our ability to understand key processes.
Present and critically analyse research findings in the area of coral reef ecology and marine biology
Demonstrate self-direction and originality in exploring the relevant scientific literature.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Portfolio | T1 Week 10 | 40.00% |
| Report | T1 Week 11 | 60.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Semester | Practical | 2 hours | 00001000100 |
| Autumn Semester | Fieldwork | 8 hours | 11111110000 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 00011000010 |
| Autumn Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22200000000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof William Hughes
Assess convenor, Convenor
/profiles/297821
Dr Valentina Scarponi
Assess convenor
/profiles/357470
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