Introduction to Animal Behaviour

Overview

This course will introduce students to the fascinating and often misinterpreted area of animal behaviour. You will explore how having an insight into behaviours can be applicable for wildlife as well as companion animals. From questions around nature vs nurture to the reasons behind social and life-stage behaviours, this module will build your theoretical and practical understanding of animal behaviour.  

Knowledge of animal behaviour is important to a range of careers from Countryside Warden to Wildlife Research Assistant and any industry that works directly with or where decisions involve animals including conservation, consultancy and environmental management. This module develops students' transferrable skills, which will be relevant when studying complementary modules such as Bird ID: An Introduction and Mammals.  

Programme

Activities and tasks will be embedded into each unit so students can practise the techniques they have learned and develop their skills. Students will be encouraged to share their own work and participate in discussions on Blackboard. Alongside the learning materials on Blackboard the tutor will be on hand via email to answer any queries and provide guidance throughout the course. They will also participate in the online discussions.   

Unit 1. Animal Behaviour: Origins 

Unit 2. Human-animal Interaction Pt. 1 Companion Animals 

Unit 3. Human-animal Interaction Pt. 2 Wildlife   

Unit 4. Approaches to the study of Behaviour: Theoretical Models 

Unit 5. Observing and Monitoring Behaviour 

Unit 6. Reporting and application 

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:

1. Describe in brief the origins of the study of animal behaviour.
2. Identify key theories in ethology and behavioural ecology.
3. Explain reasons for the range of behaviours exhibited by animals.
4. Apply theoretical understanding in the field of behaviour to practical qualitative and quantitative application by observing and reporting on animal behaviour. 

Assessments

1. Presentation Slides discussing animal behaviour, including both normal and atypical examples. (25%)
2. Behavioural observations, data analysis and written report 1500 words (75%) 

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?

As this is an online course, you would need the following:

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