Cynlluniau Astudio

Animal Behaviour


1 : Awarding Institution / Body
Aberystwyth University


2a : Teaching Institution / University
Aberystwyth University


2b : Work-based learning (where appropriate)


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
- N/A

3a : Programme accredited by
Aberystwyth University


3b : Programme approved by
Aberystwyth University


4 : Final Award
Bachelor of Science


5 : Programme title
Animal Behaviour


6 : UCAS code
C12F


7 : QAA Subject Benchmark


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
- Biosciences

8 : Date of publication


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
- August 2024

9 : Educational aims of the programme


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
-

The foundation year provides opportunities for students to develop further the foundation of their interest and knowledge in the biological sciences. It aims to develop the intellectual and practical skills of the student in preparation for the DLS degree schemes and the wider range of disciplines open to the graduate biologist. It provides the skills necessary to allow students to adapt and to respond to change, and to engage in life-long learning. Students will develop an appreciation of the social responsibilities of graduates in biological sciences in general.

To produce graduates who are able to work in the broadly defined field of animal behaviour, who can operate efficiently and safely in the field and laboratory, are able to communicate and understand behavioural data and concepts, are able to apply behaviour skills to diverse biological problems, and are able to direct their own research and learning.

Overall, the animal behaviour scheme will develop and provide:

• opportunities for students to develop and further their interest and knowledge in the biological sciences with specialization in Animal Behaviour.

• an appreciation of the complexity and diversity of life processes through the study of organisms, their molecular, cellular and physiological processes, their genetics and evolution, and the interrelationships between them and their environment

• the ability to read and use appropriate literature with a full and critical understanding, while addressing such questions as content, context, aims, objectives, quality of information, and its interpretation and application;

• the capacity to give a clear and accurate account of a subject, marshal arguments in a mature way and engage in debate and dialogue both with specialists and non-specialists;

• critical and analytical skills: a recognition that statements should be tested and that evidence is subject to assessment and critical evaluation;

• the ability to employ a variety of methods of study in investigating, recording and analysing material;

• the ability to think independently, set tasks and solve problems.

• the intellectual and practical skills in preparation for employment in careers related to Animal Behaviour and the wider range of disciplines open to the graduate biologist.

• the skills necessary to allow students to adapt and respond to change and engage in life-long learning

• the ability to be creative

• in students an appreciation of the social responsibilities of graduates in biological sciences in general, and in animal behaviour in particular



10 : Intended learning outcomes


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
-

10.1 : Knowledge and understanding


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
- A1 Describe, discuss and understand the key biological concepts and phenomena relevant to Animal Behaviour confidently, accurately and in detail, using appropriate terminology.
A2 Be aware of the full breadth of the Biosciences, from molecular to cellular, and from organism to ecosystem.
A3 Engage with literature in Animal Behaviour to develop insight into the subject.
A4 Appreciate the contribution of Biosciences to the innovations that characterise the modern world, and the potential of Biosciences graduates from this field to develop sustainable solutions to current and future challenges.
A5 Stay up to date with advances in Animal Behaviour, including aspects of sustainability, and appreciate the fluid nature of knowledge that evolves as new findings emerge.
A6 Understand the key concepts and techniques in general systems biology. Underpinning basic sciences including mathematics and computing (word processing, spreadsheets, presentation software, etc.), biological chemistry, microbiology, analytical techniques and genetics (evolution, phylogeny, taxonomy, etc.).
A7 Gain knowledge and understanding of cellular biology, cell division, organelles and cellular homeostasis. Interactions of microbes, plants and animals with each other and with the environment.

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning workshops, field and laboratory practical classes; field based practical classes; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research during a final year research project.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations involving seen and/or unseen questions. Coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentation, presentation though contemporary electronic media (e.g. video presentations, blogs, webpages, wikis), data analysis & problem-solving tasks, computer-marked tests, submission of a substantial research project.


10.2 : Skills and other attributes


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
- 10.2.1 Intellectual Skills By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to:
B1 Recognise the relationships and interfaces between Animal Behaviour and other subjects (both scientific and outside of the sciences), such that they are able to operate effectively in a multidisciplinary environment.
B2 Apply ethical awareness to working in the Biosciences, appreciate the historical context of the subject and the societal impacts of advances in the Biosciences.

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning workshops, field and laboratory practical classes; field based practical classes; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research during a final year research project.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations involving seen and/or unseen questions. Coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentation, presentation though contemporary electronic media (e.g. video presentations, blogs, webpages, wikis), data analysis & problem-solving tasks, computer-marked tests, submission of a substantial research project.

10.2.2 Professional practical skills / Discipline Specific Skills
By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to:
C1 Apply knowledge and understanding of biological systems and methodologies to design experiments and to solve theoretical and practical problems, with awareness of appropriate controls, possible bias, ethics and sustainability.
C2 Describe, document and enact safe working practices in terms of managing biological, chemical, laboratory or field-based risk, through knowledge-based risk assessments and practical activities.
C3 Select and carry out appropriate quantitative and qualitative practical (laboratory, field or computational) techniques to solve problems relevant to the course, including consideration of the theoretical basis and limitations of various techniques.
C4 Complete independent open-ended investigative work through a project/research-based assignment relevant to the course. This could be a laboratory or field-based project, an evidenced-based review, and/or collecting and evaluating data from a variety of sources.
C5 Collect qualitative and quantitative data from investigations relevant to the course and analyse and interpret these data to allow testing of hypotheses, contextualising of findings, presentation of findings, and suggestions for further lines of investigation.

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning workshops, field and laboratory practical classes; field based practical classes; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research during a final year research project.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations involving seen and/or unseen questions. Coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentation, presentation though contemporary electronic media (e.g. video presentations, blogs, webpages, wikis), data analysis & problem-solving tasks, computer-marked tests, submission of a substantial research project.


10.3 : Transferable/Key skills


Information provided by Department of Life Sciences
- By the end of their programme, all students are expected to be able to:
D1 Acquire skills in research and data analysis.
D2 Deploy mathematical and statistical concepts, processes and tools, such as the manipulation of equations and graphical and statistical analysis, to solve problems or evaluate data.
D3 Develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills.
D4 Develop a thorough grounding in information technology skills and use appropriate databases, computational techniques and tools to aid further understanding of and insight into biological processes.
D5 Demonstrate the ability to work independently.
D6 Demonstrate time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines.
D7 Develop the ability to express ideas and communicate effectively, in both written and oral forms, selecting appropriate content, media and methods for the audience, purpose and subject.
D8 Demonstrate self-motivation and self-reliance.
D9 Collaborate and work successfully and inclusively in a group environment, contributing positively and flexibly to team outputs.
D10 Act professionally, with due regard for legal, ethical and societal responsibilities, modelling good practice that promotes positive, sustainable and inclusive perceptions of the Biosciences and of Bioscientists.

Learning and Teaching
Lectures; tutorials; student-led seminars; problem-based learning workshops, field and laboratory practical classes; field based practical classes; literature-based research; computer-assisted learning; research during a final year research project.

Assessment Strategies and Methods
Written examinations involving seen and/or unseen questions. Coursework to include: report writing, essay writing, oral and poster presentation, presentation though contemporary electronic media (e.g. video presentations, blogs, webpages, wikis), data analysis & problem-solving tasks, computer-marked tests, submission of a substantial research project.


11 : Program Structures and requirements, levels, modules, credits and awards




BSC Animal Behaviour [C12F]

Blwyddyn Academaidd: 2024/2025Cynllun Anrhydedd Sengl - ar gael ers 2019/2020

Hyd (astudio Llawn Amser): 4 blwyddyn

Rheolau Rhan 1

Blwyddyn 1 Craidd (120 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
BR01200

Practical Skills for Biologists

BR01340

Molecules and Cells

BR01500

Communication Skills

Semester 2
BR01220

Practical Skills for Biologists

BR01440

Organisms and the Environment

BR01520

Communication Skills

Blwyddyn 2 Craidd (120 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
BR15700

Skills for Wildlife Scientists

BR16700

Comparative Animal Physiology

BR17120

Genetics, Evolution and Diversity

BR17520

Cell Biology

Semester 2
BR15420

Disease Diagnosis and Control

BR15720

Skills for Wildlife Scientists

BR16720

Comparative Animal Physiology

BR19320

Ecology and Conservation

Rheolau Rhan 2

Blwyddyn 3 Craidd (100 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
BR21620

Animal Behaviour

BR27120

Veterinary Health

BR27500

Research Methods

Semester 2
BR26820

Vertebrate Zoology

BR27320

Researching Behavioural Ecology

BR27520

Research Methods

Blwyddyn 3 Opsiynau

Choose 20 credits (Note: due to limited spaces on field courses, attendance must be agreed in advance with the module co-ordinator)

Semester 1
BR25420

Invertebrate Zoology

BR25520

An Introduction to Landscape Ecology and Geographic Information Systems

Semester 2
BR23820

Tropical Zoology Field Course

Blwyddyn Olaf Craidd (80 Credyd)

Compulsory module(s).

Semester 1
BR35320

Behavioural Neurobiology

BR36400

Research Project

Semester 2
BR35120

Behaviour and Welfare of Domesticated Animals

BR36440

Research Project

Blwyddyn Olaf Opsiynau

Choose 40 credits (Note: due to limited spaces on field courses, attendance must be agreed in advance with the module co-ordinator)

Semester 1
BR33420

Global Biodiversity Conservation

BR33920

Population and Community Ecology

BR34920

Animal Behaviour Field Course

Semester 2
BR33820

Parasitology

BR34520

Wildlife Conservation

BR36820

Veterinary Pharmacology and Disease Control


12 : Support for students and their learning
Every student is allocated a Personal Tutor. Personal Tutors have an important role within the overall framework for supporting students and their personal development at the University. The role is crucial in helping students to identify where they might find support, how and where to seek advice and how to approach support to maximise their student experience. Further support for students and their learning is provided by Information Services and Student Support and Careers Services.


13 : Entry Requirements
Details of entry requirements for the scheme can be found at http://courses.aber.ac.uk


14 : Methods for evaluating and improving the quality and standards of teaching and learning
All taught study schemes are subject to annual monitoring and periodic review, which provide the University with assurance that schemes are meeting their aims, and also identify areas of good practice and disseminate this information in order to enhance the provision.


15 : Regulation of Assessment
Academic Regulations are published as Appendix 2 of the Academic Quality Handbook: https://www.aber.ac.uk/en/aqro/handbook/app-2/.


15.1 : External Examiners
External Examiners fulfill an essential part of the University’s Quality Assurance. Annual reports by External Examiners are considered by Faculties and Academic Board at university level.


16 : Indicators of quality and standards
The Department Quality Audit questionnaire serves as a checklist about the current requirements of the University’s Academic Quality Handbook. The periodic Department Reviews provide an opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of quality assurance processes and for the University to assure itself that management of quality and standards which are the responsibility of the University as a whole are being delivered successfully.