Understanding Amphibians

From giant 2m-long Giant Salamander to the smallest vertebrae, a fingernail-sized frog, amphibians are fascinating. They are unique in many aspects of their development, physiology and ecology and have wide-reaching importance in both the human environment and aquatic community structures. Globally, amphibians’ diversity and numbers are under extreme threat through habitat fragmentation, viral and fungal diseases, water course management and exploitation.

During this module, students will learn to identify common British amphibians at all life stages and gain practical experience of identification and using field survey methods. The module will also cover threats to species and habitats as well as legal protection.

This is a blended learning module so will involve both online and in-person teaching. The online section of the module is delivered via Blackboard, our online learning environment. You will complete two self-paced, introductory units online before attending an optional day of in-person teaching at an ecology venue in Wales. Following the course, you will complete a final online unit and submit your assessments. Your tutor will provide online support for the duration of the course.

The optional in-person teaching will occur over one day and be at Llysdinam, near Newbridge on Wye, Llandrindod Wells.

Understanding Amphibians can be studied as a stand-alone course, but it is also a key module for the Certificate of Higher Education in Ecology.

Note

This module is at CQFW Level 4