Identifying Gymnosperms

Overview

The module will introduce learners to phanerogam botany characteristics, focusing on gymnosperms (vascular plants without flowers and fruits) and skills will be extended towards identification and understanding their lifecycle, economic importance and conservation.

The emphasis will be on
a. learning key differences and similarities between other members of sub-kingdom phanerogams as well as the closest cryptogams – i.e. pteridophytes/ ferns
b. learning how to use a flora and create a key to identify plants, rather than learning a defined species list.

Characteristic adaptations in general morphology and anatomy in relation to other members of the plant kingdom will be discussed along with their evolutionary, biodiversity and economic roles.

Learners will develop and use skills and knowledge to rationalise and justify classification decisions and build confidence in using flora, and other resources, both physical and digital. Learners will also gather resources as they progress through the module which will aid their professional prospects alongside building interest in furthering their career in ecology.
Plants are used to define habitats in relation to other biotic and abiotic factors and are at the centre of all ecological work. So exploring evolutionary characteristics, rationalising and learning to use essential resources (physical and digital) are valuable skills for field and conservation ecologists.

This module will build upon existing knowledge on plant morphology gained via the Identifying Flowering Plants course (XS29810). Studying this prior course will help students familiarise themselves with morphological and anatomical characters and link it to evolution of advance characters in flowering plants (angiosperms) and in pteridophytes (cryptogams)

Programme

• Unit 1 - Introduction to morphological characters and taxonomical terms
• Unit 2 - Introduction to anatomical characters
• Unit 3 - Recording observations from detailed examination and identification of specimens.
• Unit 4 - Using a flora and research articles to identify and confirm
• Unit 5 - Significance of features in terms of lifecycle, adaptations, and evolution
• Unit 6 - Biodiversity and economic significance

Learning Outcomes

1. Observe, describe, and record, using the correct terminology, the key features necessary for the identification of plant specimens.
2. Demonstrate the use of key resources to reason/ rationalise their classification and ability to communicate their findings.
3. Evaluate adaptations and evolutionary significance of the characteristic/ diagnostic features of the families.

Assessments

1. Test - 200 Words (20%)
2. Digital Portfolio (40%)
3. Online Assessment (10%)
4. Written Assignment (30%)

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 blended 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.