The module applies ecological theory to focus on the issues around global and local biodiversity and its management. The module covers major theoretical concepts including conservation theory, the importance of small populations and ‘measuring’ biodiversity. These will be discussed in the context of practical conservation. The concept of conservation and the how prioritisation is undertaken will be introduced and these will be considered within the framework of legislation. We will also explore how public engagement is a key aspect of conservation and how this can be included in conservation plans. The module will use a variety of current issues and case studies from the terrestrial, aquatic and marine environments to illustrate key ecological concepts within the context of conservation.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Be able to identify and evaluate threats to biodiversity on a global, regional and local scale
Understand how policy and legislation are used within conservation
Critically assess how biodiversity is measured for conservation purposes
Be able to critically assess and choose appropriate management techniques for conservation of habitats and species
Understand how prioritisation of conservation is undertaken
Understand how public engagement can be used within conservation strategies and be able to apply this to specific scenarios
Identify key strategies used to design, protect and manage habitats
Apply knowledge from conservation theory to practise
To know how to budget and project manage a conservation management plan
Integrate and evaluate information acquired through lectures, independent research and site visits to formulate an ecological management plan for a UK or overseas reserve.
Assessment
27192-02 : 5000 word Management Plan : Coursework (100%)