Fundamentals of Ecology
Credit points
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
Prerequisites
RBF1320 - Biology 2
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)
Overview
This unit covers a range of topics related to the basic understanding of the nature of Ecology. The areas covered include the history and development of the philosophical underpinnings of our modern understanding of ecology and the evolutionary process. Included in this unit are the fundamentals of the responses of plants, animals and other organisms to their environment and the interaction of these organisms as they form communities and ecosystems.
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- Identify and clearly interpret key ecological processes at population, community and ecosystem levels;
- Relate ecological concepts to real-life field situations and environmental management;
- Determine methods of studying and measuring species behaviour, interactions and dynamics; and
- Critically examine conceptually complex ecological thought in both written and spoken form.
Assessment
For Melbourne campuses
Assessment type: Test | Grade: 30%
Tests (3)
Assessment type: Report | Grade: 40%
Field Portfolio
Assessment type: Presentation | Grade: 30%
Oral and Written Presentation
Required reading
Required readings will be made available on VU Collaborate.
As part of a course
This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):