Course overview
In this course students will understand and apply advanced ecological concepts, building on knowledge and concepts from Principles of Ecology 2. To do so, we explore conceptual and mechanistic models that aim to understand the dynamics of biological populations, communities and ecosystems. We then apply these models in a range of theoretical and applied scenarios in workshops. A mandatory field camp provides learners with hands-on experience and practical job-ready skills necessary for applying ecological principles in real-world environments. This course provides a crucial theoretical and applied understanding of ecological concepts for understanding the processes determining biodiversity in nature and its relevance for conservation and management.
This course includes a compulsory field camp in the mid-semester break (see timetable). The field trips for Advanced Concepts in Ecology 3 and Freshwater Ecology 3 courses are scheduled back-to-back so that students can do both. Note that there is an additional cost associated with the camp, which varies year-to-year but is approximately 200-250 dollars.
- Biodiversity across space and scale
- Ecological assembly and coexistence
- Ecosystem functioning and biogeochemistry
- Stability, change, resilience, and novelty
Course learning outcomes
- Explain and synthesise fundamental and advanced ecological concepts.
- Analyse and evaluate complex ecological patterns and processes using contemporary conceptual and quantitative models.
- Formulate specific research questions and design corresponding study designs to address existing knowledge gaps in ecology, both collaboratively and independently.
- Collect high-quality ecological data in field settings and analyse using appropriate methods.
- Communicate and justify ecological findings in relation to the broader scientific literature.
Availability
Class details
Adelaide City Campus East
Group 1
Class number 30055
Section FW01
Size 140
Available 90
Notes:
Class number 29890
Section WS02
Size 70
Available 32
Class number 30056
Section WS01
Size 70
Available 58
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