The Principles and Practice of Field Ecology

Abstract

This subject comprises an extended field trip. Students are given the opportunity to learn the fundamental principles of ecology in an applied, real-world setting. In addition to repeatability, objectivity and other aspects of study design, students learn the importance of ethical and animal welfare considerations. Students learn how to synthesise … For more content click the Read More button below. Due to restrictions in the availability of suitable accommodation in the field trip locales, enrolment numbers in this subject are restricted. Please note that there is a selection process conducted to determine enrolment in this subject. Students should not enrol in this subject unless they have submitted an expression of interest and subsequently been advised that they have been selected to participate. Accommodation, food and transport costs are associated with this subject.

This subject comprises an extended field trip. Students are given the opportunity to learn the fundamental principles of ecology in an applied, real-world setting. In addition to repeatability, objectivity and other aspects of study design, students learn the importance of ethical and animal welfare considerations. Students learn how to synthesise information from primary and secondary sources, identify gaps in our current ecological understanding of key areas, and translate these knowledge gaps into a series of testable questions. Students are given opportunities to overcome logistical and conceptual challenges in the field, enhancing their problem solving skills and abilities to work as part of a team. Students completing this subject have the ability to conduct scientific research, situate new knowledge gathered from the field within the context of existing knowledge and communicate their findings to a range of audiences in a professional manner.

Due to restrictions in the availability of suitable accommodation in the field trip locales, enrolment numbers in this subject are restricted. Please note that there is a selection process conducted to determine enrolment in this subject. Students should not enrol in this subject unless they have submitted an expression of interest and subsequently been advised that they have been selected to participate. Accommodation, food and transport costs are associated with this subject.

Syllabus

The syllabus is dependent upon the area or bioregion in focus and may change depending on the skills and abilities of the Subject Coordinator. Each student will however: undertake a 'desktop' investigation of an area/bioregion in the preparation for, the planning of, and implementation of a field study within that … For more content click the Read More button below. employ appropriate research, documentation, evaluation, and reporting methodologies for documenting the success or otherwise of planning, implementing, and reporting on a field study develop a research proposal and implement appropriate research methods to investigate one environmental issue within the region; critically evaluate the concerns, strategies and processes that occurred on their field trip; provide a written report on their scientific study from the field that places the new knowledge found within the context of existing knowledge.

The syllabus is dependent upon the area or bioregion in focus and may change depending on the skills and abilities of the Subject Coordinator. Each student will however:

undertake a 'desktop' investigation of an area/bioregion in the preparation for, the planning of, and implementation of a field study within that area;
employ appropriate research, documentation, evaluation, and reporting methodologies for documenting the success or otherwise of planning, implementing, and reporting on a field study
develop a research proposal and implement appropriate research methods to investigate one environmental issue within the region;
critically evaluate the concerns, strategies and processes that occurred on their field trip;
provide a written report on their scientific study from the field that places the new knowledge found within the context of existing knowledge.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject, students should:

be able to develop a sound research proposal, including sourcing background information, preparation for field study, and implementing a research plan

be able to conduct scientific research and gather data from the field including the collation and analysis of results from the field

be able to situate new knowledge gathered from the field within the context of existing knowledge and communicate their findings in a professional manner

be able to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practice and issues associated with field ecology

Assumed knowledge

A knowledge of ecology equivalent to a subject of 200 level or higher will be assumed in this subject

Enrolment restrictions

Students must be enrolled in a course offered by the Faculty of Science.

Incompatible