Conservation Strategies - Principles and Practice

Overview

With the ongoing biodiversity crisis, environmental protection and restoring biodiversity have become increasingly pressing issues. This module will provide an overview of science, theory and practical aspects of conservation biology. By exploring the interdisciplinary toolbox used by conservation biologists, will we critique ongoing conservation efforts by exploring real world case studies.

Programme

The course will cover the following areas:

• The need for conservation.
• The importance of conserving biodiversity at a range of scales, from genetic diversity to biomes and ecosystems.
• Ecological and evolutionary theory underpinning conservation.
• Practical approaches to conserving species, habitats and ecosystems.

Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate an understanding of the major threats to biodiversity and why conservation is needed.
• Understand the ecological theory relevant to successful conservation.
• Understand the suite of interdisciplinary tools used for conservation efforts.
• Critically evaluate the future of conservation science. 

Assessments

1. Public Outreach Poster - 50%
2. Conservation Action Plan - 50%

Reading Suggestions

Reading suggestions will be offered throughout the course. 

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements. 

What Do I Need?

• Internet access.
• Access to a laptop or computer with a web camera and microphone; the use of headphones might also benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web browser where possible.