BI1425, Evolution and ecology for animal science students, 7.5 Hp
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Syllabus

Finalized by: Programnämnden för utbildning inom veterinärmedicin och husdjur (PN - VH), 2021-12-13
Valid from : Spring semester 2023 (2023-01-16)

Level

First cycle (G1F)

Main field of study

Biology

Grading Scale

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.

Course language

English

Entry Requirements

Objectives

The course provides new perspectives relating to domestic animals’ natural history, welfare, social behavior and disease.

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

• describe the evolutionary selection processes (natural, sexual and artificial selection) as they relate to different animal species,
• account for evolutionary and ecological perspectives on the domestication process, and how to use these perspectives to better understand the morphology, behavior, welfare and susceptibility to disease of domestic companion animals and livestock,
• discuss how evolutionary and ecological perspectives are used to understand the spread and impact of domestic species within natural ecosystems
• account for ecological and evolutionary processes in disease management and welfare of both domestic and wild animals; in particular the importance of ecological processes within an integrated ‘One Health’ perspective,
• discuss how an understanding of natural selection principles can be extended to non-traditional fields of understanding, such as the evolution of internet memes and viral ideas within our cultural environment.

Content

The course primarily covers the topics of evolution and ecology as they relate to the domestication history and way of life of domestic and wild animals. Specifically the course focuses on the basic principles of natural, sexual and artificial selection with relevance for all students studying animal sciences.

The course provides a deep understanding of evolutionary and ecological processes and how they can be applied by animal scientists to enrich their understanding of animal biology, behaviour, disease, medicine and culture. The course primarily focuses on how evolutionary history and ecology have shaped the biology of animals, particularly with regard to companion animals and livestock. Compulsory components are reflections on the course material and online group discussions.

In the course, the following general skills are trained: critical thinking

The course content is made up of lectures, online discussions and reflections of how to use evolutionary and ecological concepts within traditional animal science fields.

Examination Formats and Requirements for Passing the Course

Approved participation in compulsory reflections and discussions.

Responsible Department/Equivalent

Department of Ecology

Supplementary information

Module set

Title	Credits	Code
Single module	7.5	0101

Other Information

Lectures are in English, but Swedish students will have access to a Swedish-English glossary of terms to make it easier to translate concepts discussed during this course into other courses they take.

The lectures and discussions will be accessible ‘live’ as well as being recorded and available online so that students can watch or read the lecture and be involved in discussions at a time best suited to them. Thus the course delivery and the timing of student participation will be flexible to allow students to take the course remotely, or in parallel with other studies, if preferred.