Learning objectives
The ecology course composes of two modules.
Module 1, Ecology. It aims at providing the basic knowledge on concepts and theories of modern ecology and their evolution in the last century. The main focus is on how ecological components and processes are suitable for analysing and managing environmental issues, nature and natural resource conservation.
Module 2, Analysis of ecological systems. It aims at providing ecological skills for analysing environmental issues. This module is focussed on two study cases, which students have to handle by answering four main questions: 1) what do we have to analyse; 2) which methods are suitable for analysis; 3) How data have to be processed and presented; 4) What are the main environmental application of the study findings.
Prerequisites
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Course unit content
See the modules.
Full programme
See the individual modules for details.
Bibliography
See the modules.
Teaching methods
See the modules.
Assessment methods and criteria
After completing the first module, the student is capable of analysing and understanding the ecosystem structure and related processes. In the second module, the student aquires basic ecological skills for analysing and solving environmental issues with different levels of complexity.
The evaluation composes of two exams. A written test is held at the end of the first module; once passing the test, at the end of the second module the student is requested to held a second written test . The final mark is calculated as the mean of the two marks.
For details, see each module.
Other information
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2030 agenda goals for sustainable development
The two modules of the ecology course mainly deals with basic principles and concepts of modern ecology, with particular reference to biodiversity and ecosystem. The SDGs 14-life underwater and 15-life on land are therefore fundamental references. The course also deals with applied ecology issues concerning SDGs 6, 12 and 13, with reference to the main processes that regulate water quality and availability, responsible and sustainable use of resources and climate change.
