Print Syllabus

Syllabus

BI1451 Forest and landscape ecology, 15.0 Credits

Skogs- och landskapsekologi

Subjects

Biology

Education cycle

Bachelor’s level

Advanced study in the main field

First cycle, has only upper-secondary level entry requirements
Bachelor’s level (G1N)

Grading scale

Language

English

Prior knowledge

General entry requirements for first-cycle studies and

- Mathematics 2a, alternative Mathematics 2b, alternative Mathematics 2c, alternative Mathematics B
- Science studies 2, alternative Science studies B
- English B

As the language of instruction is English, the Swedish language general entry requirement may not apply.

Objectives

The aim of the course is to give an introduction to basic ecological concepts with particular emphasis on the ecology of forested urban and rural landscapes. Moreover, the students are introduced to ecological applications like functional ecology and ecosystem services, as well as to conservation biology applied to managed and unmanaged forest systems.

After completing the course, the student should be able to

• describe ecological organisational levels and give examples of ecological processes and structures in different scale levels
• discuss different ecological processes that may explain biodiversity of forest ecosystems
• discuss the influence of the surrounding landscape on ecological processes
• explain the ecological background of the most important environmental problems in forested landscapes
• exemplify forest ecosystem functions that are important for the delivery of services for society and environment
• use some common ecological methods and applications
• analyse and discuss ecological literature
• use fundamental ecological vocabulary in oral and written communication.

Content

The course focuses on the fundamental ecological concepts, theoretical principles, and practical applications of modern forest and landscape ecology. The students learn how forest ecosystems are organised and get an overview of their biotic and abiotic components and processes. During the course, students discuss ecological applications and learn how organisms and their environment interact. Furthermore, they explore ecological principles at individual, population, community, ecosystem, and landscape levels. The students learn to understand the effects of natural and human impact on natural forest ecosystem functions. There is also an introduction to the way that ecological knowledge is applied on species conservation in forested landscapes.

Theoretical and practical elements of teaching activities are designed to acquire a deep understanding of the basics in ecology, particularly forest and landscape ecology. Lectures aimed at facilitating students’ comprehension of the course literature, that mainly consists of scientific texts. All modules contain practical elements like excursions and exercises . Students will also participate in group work based on selected literature, which is presented orally as well as in writing. Excursions and oral presentations are compulsory.

Grading form

The grade requirements within the course grading system are set out in specific criteria. These criteria must be available by the course start at the latest.

Formats and requirements for examination

Approved group and individual written assignments. Participation in compulsory activities.

• If a student has failed an examination, the examiner has the right to issue supplementary assignments. This applies if it is possible and there are grounds to do so.

• The examiner can provide an adapted assessment to students entitled to study support for students with disabilities following a decision by the university. Examiners may also issue an adapted examination or provide an alternative way for the students to take the exam.

• If this syllabus is withdrawn, SLU may introduce transitional provisions for examining students admitted based on this syllabus and who have not yet passed the course.

• For the assessment of an independent project (degree project), the examiner may also allow a student to add supplemental information after the deadline for submission. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Other information

• The right to participate in teaching and/or supervision only applies for the course instance the student was admitted to and registered on.

• If there are special reasons, students are entitled to participate in components with compulsory attendance when the course is given again. Read more in the Education Planning and Administration Handbook.

Additional information

The course applies the principles of Writing Across the Curriculum (WAC) for the written elements of the course. Additional costs for excursions may apply.

Responsible department

Department of Southern Swedish Forest Research Centre

Cooperating departments: