Wildflowers: Identification and Folklore

In this course we will approach the identification of wildflowers by focusing on some key wildflower families, which have a selection of both edible and poisonous species. As well as covering the botanical features important for identification, we will learn how to group the features together to give combinations of characteristics which lead to accurate identification.

Throughout the course we will weave in the folklore and traditional use of the plants we find and cover key concepts important to foraging including sustainable harvesting and use.

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 a day and a half 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 in-person teaching will occur over one weekend and be at an ecology venue in Wales. On the Saturday, students will need to attend from 10-5pm and, on the Sunday, from 10-2pm.

This module can be studied as a stand-alone course but it is also a key module for the Certificate of Higher Education in Field Ecology at Aberystwyth University.

Assessments
Wildflower ID Quiz (20%)
Species Profile 1600 words (80%)

Note

This module is at CQFW Level 4