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BI1301

Applied Population Ecology

The aim of the course is to cover theoretical foundations of population ecology, and important applications of population ecology to solve real-world problems. Important theoretical concepts of population ecology are included in lectures and assigned readings to ensure a solid foundation of population ecology, but the course focuses on the many important applications of population ecology to solve real world problems (with in-depth considerations of selected aspects). The course addresses the sustainable use of harvested animal populations and specific difficulties related to conserving less common or endangered species by considering the demographic and genetic problems posed by small and/or fragmented populations. Hence, in both lectures and exercises, the course covers the population genetics, structure, demography, dynamics and stability of populations. Compulsory exercises occur. Selected methods for obtaining information required for decision-making in conservation and management (e.g. assessments of demographic structure and population size, etc.) are also covered.

Course evaluation

The course evaluation is now closed

BI1301-20040 - Course evaluation report

Once the evaluation is closed, the course coordinator and student representative have 1 month to draft their comments. The comments will be published in the evaluation report.

Additional course evaluations for BI1301

Academic year 2022/2023

Applied Population Ecology (BI1301-20134)

2022-11-01 - 2023-01-15

Academic year 2020/2021

Applied Population Ecology (BI1301-20016)

2020-11-02 - 2021-01-17

Academic year 2019/2020

Applied Population Ecology (BI1301-20032)

2019-11-01 - 2020-01-19

Academic year 2018/2019

Applied Population Ecology (BI1301-20054)

2018-11-06 - 2019-01-20

Syllabus and other information

Syllabus

BI1301 Applied Population Ecology, 15.0 Credits

Tillämpad populationsekologi

Subjects

Forest Science Biology

Education cycle

Master’s level

Modules

Title Credits Code
Single module 15.0 0201

Advanced study in the main field

Second cycle, has only first-cycle course/s as entry requirementsMaster’s level (A1N)

Grading scale

5:Pass with Distinction, 4:Pass with Credit, 3:Pass, U:Fail The requirements for attaining different grades are described in the course assessment criteria which are contained in a supplement to the course syllabus. Current information on assessment criteria shall be made available at the start of the course.

Language

English

Prior knowledge

Knowledge at basic level equivalent to 120 credits including

- 60 credits Biology including 15 credits Ecology or

- 60 credits Forest Science including 15 credits Ecology or

- 60 credits Natural Resource Management including 15 credits Ecology or

- 60 credits Environmental Sciences including 15 credits Ecology or

and

- English 6

Objectives

The aim of the course is to cover theoretical foundations of population ecology, and important applications of population ecology to solve real-world problems.



After completing the course the student will be able to:

- Have an in-depth understanding of many of the applications of population ecology, especially with regard to sustainable use of harvested animal populations and the conservation of small populations.

- Critically evaluate published studies, identify what data and studies are needed to solve management problems or conservation challenges.

- Perform all steps in the application of population ecology to selected problems, including use of the published scientific literature, data collection, data analysis, and use of the data in various models to understand and predict population development.

- Communicate their conclusions in written form.

Content

Important theoretical concepts of population ecology are included in lectures and assigned readings to reach the course objectives and to ensure a solid foundation of population ecology, but the course focuses on the many important applications of population ecology to solve real world problems (with in-depth considerations of selected aspects).



The course addresses the sustainable use of harvested animal populations and specific difficulties related to conserving less common or endangered species by considering the demographic and genetic problems posed by small and/or fragmented populations. Hence, in both lectures and exercises, the course covers the population genetics, structure, demography, dynamics and stability of populations. Compulsory exercises occur.



Selected methods for obtaining information required for decision-making in conservation and management (e.g. assessments of demographic structure and population size, etc.) are also covered. Furthermore, in computer labs and assignments students will analyze data and use it in models to gain a deeper understanding of population ecology and predicting the risk of extinction or population changes under various conditions.



Regarding general skills, students will thus develop their skills in information retrieval (i.e. the published scientific literature), critically evaluating it (including any gaps in knowledge), analyzing data and using it in models, and communicating their conclusions in written form.

Formats and requirements for examination

Approved written examination, approved compulsory assignments and participation in compulsory parts. If a student fails a test, the examiner may give the student a supplementary assignment, provided this is possible and there is reason to do so.

If a student has been granted targeted study support because of a disability, the examiner has the right to offer the student an adapted test, or provide an alternative form of assessment.

If this course is discontinued, SLU will decide on transitional provisions for the examination of students admitted under this syllabus who have not yet been awarded a Pass grade.

For the assessment an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after  the deadline for submission.  For more information, please refer to the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.
  • If the student fails a test, the examiner may give the student a supplementary assignment, provided this is possible and there is reason to do so.
  • If the student has been granted special educational support because of a disability, the examiner has the right to offer the student an adapted test, or provide an alternative assessment.
  • If changes are made to this course syllabus, or if the course is closed, SLU shall decide on transitional rules for examination of students admitted under this syllabus but who have not yet passed the course.
  • For the examination of a degree project (independent project), the examiner may also allow the student to add supplemental information after the deadline. For more information on this, please refer to the regulations for education at Bachelor's and Master's level.

Other information

The right to take part in teaching and/or supervision only applies to the course instance which the student has been admitted to and registered on.

If there are special reasons, the student may take part in course components that require compulsory attendance at a later date. For more information, please refer to the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

The course is a part of the Master’s Programme in the Management of Fish and Wildlife Populations but is open to other students.



Students following the Forest Science programme at SLU meet the requirements of 15 credits in Ecology by the courses given over the first two years of the programme. The requirement of 15 credits in Ecology can also be met by the course SG0251 Forest Ecology 15 credits.



SLU is environmentally certified according to ISO 14001. A large part of our courses cover knowledge and skills that contribute positively to the environment. To further strengthen this, we have specific environmental goals for the education. Students are welcome to suggest actions regarding the course’s content and implementation that lead to improvements for the environment. For more information, see webpage www.slu.se.

Responsible department

Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Environmental Studies

Further information

Determined by: Programnämnden för utbildning inom skog (PN - S)
Biology field: Ekologi
Replaces: BI1122

Grading criteria

There are no Grading criteria posted for this course

Litterature list

  1. Wildlife Biology, Conservation and Management. 3rd Ed. Författare: Fryxell, J.M., Sinclair, A.R.E., and Caughley, G. ISBN: ISBN: 978-1-118-29106-1 (paperback) [Wildlife Biology, Conservation and Management. 3rd Ed.] (https://www.bokfynd.nu/9781118291078/wildlife-ecology-conservation-and-management/) Kommentar: Get the 3rd edition (2014). To get the best price on this or ANY book delivered in Sweden, go to http://www.bokfynd.nu/1118291077.html which searches bookstores all over Sweden and the world, incorporates shipping costs and converts the total to Swedish kronor for the best price delivered in Sweden. Right now many bookstores have it (about 510kr, if it is a LOT more, you may have landed on the hardcover version, so try again). NOTE: this is an optional (but recommended book for the course "Fish and Wildlife Management" as well so your costs could be spread over two courses.

Course facts

The course is offered as an independent course: Yes The course is offered as a programme course: Management of Fish and Wildlife Populations - Master's Programme Tuition fee: Tuition fee only for non-EU/EEA/Switzerland citizens: 38054 SEK Cycle: Master’s level (A1N)
Subject: Forest Science Biology
Course code: BI1301 Application code: SLU-20040 Location: Umeå Distance course: No Language: English Responsible department: Department of Wildlife, Fish, & Environmental Studies Pace: 100%