Climate Change Ecology

Overview

This module explores the impact of past and current climate changes on different levels of ecological organisation (populations, communities and ecosystems) and the interactions of biological systems with the climate system. It will also introduce ‘’climate-smart conservation’’ (a new vision of conservation in times of climate change), climate change innovation and best practices for a more sustainable future. Additionally, this course will help students develop the skills needed to critically assess scientific papers. On completion of the module, students should be able to apply ecological theories and critically evaluate the impacts of climate change on the conservation and management of resources.

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 - The course will start with welcome webinar. The first unit will provide a foundation of basic knowledge of climate change ecology.  

Unit 2 - The impacts of past and current climate changes on different levels of ecological organization (i.e. populations, communities and ecosystems) will be broadly explained. 

Unit 3 - the concept of ‘climate-smart conservation’ and its key components will be introduced. The students will begin their reflective journals in respond to readings and key questions. 

Units 4 and 5 - Best practices for a more sustainable future will be studied. This unit will cover such areas as water and soils management, plant breeding and weed management, livestock management, ecosystem restoration, conservation of biodiversity and designing smart infrastructure. 

Unit 6 -  A range of different opportunities, ideas of how to help tackling climate change will be introduced. During the course, students will need to complete 2 assignments. These assignments will encourage critical thinking (written assignment) and discuss real world examples of climate change as well as climate-smart conservation and innovation. Final webinar. 

Learning Outcomes

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

1. Demonstrate a basic understanding of the effects of climate change on ecological systems.
2. Critically evaluate the impacts of climate change on the conservation and management of resources.
3. Critically identify the basic principles and key characteristics of ‘climate-smart conservation’.
4. Critically evaluate scientific writing.

Assessments

1. Scientific Paper Review 1500 words (75%)
2. Climate Smart Reflective Journal 500 words (25%) 

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 benefit.
• Use of the Chrome web browser where possible.