Print Syllabus

Syllabus

HV0186 Ethology and anthrozoology 2, 15.0 Credits

Etologi och antrozoologi 2

Subjects

Animal Science Biology Animal science Biology

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Modules

Title	Credits	Code
Ethology and anthrozoolog	13.5	0102
Ethological methods	1.5	0103

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has at least 60 credits in first-cycle course/s as entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G2F)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

• 75 credits animal science of which at least 7,5 credits ethology

or

• 75 credits biology of which at least 7,5 credits ethology



Exemption granted from the general entry requirement of Swedish

Objectives

The purpose of the course is for students to gain in-depth knowledge in ethology and anthrozoology as scientific subjects and what applications these subjects have in society.

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• describe, discuss and use motivation theories, theories of learning and cognition as well as behavioural ecology to understand animal behaviour,

• use and compare different types of experimental design and observation methods in ethological and anthrozoological research,

• explain, discuss and assess scientific literature in ethology and anthrozoology,

• discuss how human attitudes towards animals have consequences for both animals and humans,

• explain how to become a good communicator / educator towards animal owners and argue for how animal owners can improve communication with their animals,

• independently investigate and convey scientifically based advice on behavioural problems and unwanted behaviour in animals orally and in writing.

Content

The course deals with motivation, learning, cognition and behavioural ecology to shed light on problems that arise in different types of animal husbandry. The students also work with ethological methods that are discussed and compared with regard to advantages and disadvantages when observing different types of behaviours and issues. The course also deals with how evolution and domestication affect our communication with animals. The students analyse and process situations where pet owners experience problems with their animals. Students get to practice independently investigating and giving advice on behaviour and practice communicating with pet owners in different situations. The course contains shorter internships that the student is responsible for organising in consultation with the course leader.

The course includes basic group work according to PBL (Problem-Based Learning), practical elements, lectures, group seminars, as well as project work and many of these elements are compulsory.

Compulsory activities in, for example, exercises, project work and internships.

Within the course, the student practices the following generic competencies: written and oral communication, analysis, problem solving, ethics and critical approach.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Passed written and oral examination. Passed participation in compulsory course modules.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.
• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.
• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and 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 submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

Practical elements in the course can consist of internships and study visits. Costs for these may apply.

Responsible department

Department of Animal Envrionment and Health