Understanding Amphibians

 

Understanding Amphibians can be studied as a stand-alone course and a key course for the Certificate of Higher Education in Field Ecology at Aberystwyth University.

Key Facts

 

Language: English

Duration: 10 Weeks

Number of Credits: 10

Tutor: Dr Fred Slater

Learning Method: Blended

Level: This module is at CQFW Level 4

Module Code: XS11410

Fee: £130.00 - Fee Waiver Scheme available

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Overview

Amphibians are fascinating and 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.

Students will learn to identify common British amphibians at all life stages and gain practical ‘hands-on’ experience 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 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.

Programme

The content is delivered using Video PowerPoint lectures plus supplementary content and face to face teaching of Units 3 and 4. Activities, discussion boards and mini quizzes will be embedded throughout the units so the tutor can provide support and trickle feedback. A number of the activities will help the students to prepare for the assignments.

Please note Units 1, 2 and 5 are online but Units 4 and 5 will take place on location and will involve daytime and evening field activities.

  • Unit 1 – Introduction (Online)
  • Unit 2 – British Species (Online)
  • Unit 3 – In-person teaching session (approx. 8 hours)
  • Unit 4 – In-person teaching session (approx. 3 hours)
  • Unit 5 – Conservation and Habitat Management (Online)

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Identify the common British amphibians and demonstrate an understanding of their morphology and diagnostic characters.
  2. Demonstrate an understanding of basic survey techniques used to monitor amphibians.
  3. Explain the distribution, life histories, habitat and conservation requirements of amphibians in the UK.
  4. Analyse the threats and legal protections that relate to amphibians in the UK.

Assessments

  1. On-site Survey Report (300 words; 30%)
  2. Written Assignment (1500 words; 70%) 

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.