Ecological Techniques

This module gives the student a theoretical background to allow them to identify factors likely to set the limits to the distribution and abundance of species and which determine spatial and temporal variation in biological diversity; the student will learn how to design and set up a laboratory or field experiment and chose appropriate sampling techniques.

The module builds on the data handling skills acquired by the learner in the year 2 Experimental Design & Statistics The learner will describe and interpret statistical theory relevant to ecological studies. The learner will use a computer – based statistical application to select, analyse, present and interpret ecological data using a range of parametric and non – parametric hypothesis testing procedures

Sustainable development topics that are referenced in this module include clean water and sanitation, responsible consumption and production, climate action and life below water. 

1. Identify possible factors responsible for setting the limits to the distribution and abundance of species, and for determining variation in biodiversity.

2. Choose appropriate techniques for sampling marine and freshwater organisms.

3. Create hypotheses, design and set up experiments and field sampling programmes to test them.

4. Select and apply appropriate statistical principles and techniques to analyse ecological data.

5. Use statistical software applications for data analysis.

6. Present and interpret ecological data in scientific format.