Tropical Rainforests:Biogeog and Conserv (F8013A)
Tropical Rainforests: Biogeography and Conservation
Module F8013A
Module details for 2022/23.
15 credits
FHEQ Level 6
Module Outline
The module aims to develop an understanding of tropical rainforest (trf) ecosystems and the consequences of their great antiquity, present rapid destruction and uncertain future. Students will examine and evaluate the many hypotheses attempting to explain the astonishing species richness of trfs and explore their complex ecological organization. Sustainable use of trfs is contrasted with their ever-increasing destruction by peasant farmers, timber companies, cattle ranchers and other commercial interests. Students will learn about the impact of trf destruction on world climates, global biodiversity, and natural resources. Future prospects for conservation and management are assessed, including less damaging methods of timber harvesting, ecotourism, the potential of a new 'carbon market' (REDD++) and the role and contribution of scientist and international conservation organisations. The coursework and seminar series associated with the module will introduce skills of practical use to students deciding to follow a career within conservation - the main focus being the development of an original grant proposal to the Royal Geographical Society.
Module learning outcomes
Exhibit the ability to evaluate complex hypotheses concerning the generation of biodiversity and describe the complex interactions between flora and fauna of tropical rainforests in a written format with references to primary literature.
Evaluate and synthesize the primary literature to describe the environmental history of the three major forest blocks in an essay format with reference to primary literature.
Critically evaluate the primary literature to identify an important research question.
Construct and design a grant proposal for funding.
| Type | Timing | Weighting |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | 100.00% | |
| Coursework components. Weighted as shown below. | ||
| Report | A2 Week 1 | 100.00% |
Timing
Submission deadlines may vary for different types of assignment/groups of students.
Weighting
Coursework components (if listed) total 100% of the overall coursework weighting value.
| Term | Method | Duration | Week pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring Semester | Lecture | 1 hour | 22222222222 |
| Spring Semester | Seminar | 2 hours | 00111010000 |
How to read the week pattern
The numbers indicate the weeks of the term and how many events take place each week.
Prof Mika Peck
Convenor, Assess convenor
/profiles/76093
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.