Marine Ecological Systems (8505.2)

Individual topic Module : A system of individualised Module s each covering specific parts of the subject replaces regular lectures. Each Module consists of a number of scientific publications, which must be read and supplemented by other references. The Module s have been designed to provoke thought and, during assessment, credit will be given for evidence of this. Module 1: Ecological principles pertaining to marine ecosystems; Module 2: Intertidal ecosystems; Module 3: Subtidal ecosystems. Field trip: A structured visit to the main intertidal and sub tidal marine ecosystem on the South coast Project: A project requiring field and laboratory will be conducted throughout the semester. Students are expected to become familiar with the use of journals, abstracts and electronic data-bases over the course of the subject, in consultation with library.

Learning outcomes

1. An understanding of the chemical, biological and physical processes determining the diversity and functioning of marine systems
2. An understanding of threats to these systems
3. Skills in interpreting the literature based on recognition of the significance of systematic sampling methods examining ecological processes and environmental problems
4. Development of report writing skills using marine ecology literature.
5. Skills in sampling and analysis of ecological processes and the problems associated with the sampling and interpretation of ecological processes
6. An understanding of the learning skills developed in this unit