1. Handbook
  2. Subjects
  3. Applied Ecology

Applied Ecology (ECOL30005)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

You’re viewing the 2019 Handbook:
Or view archived Handbooks
You’re currently viewing the 2019 version of this subject

Overview

Availability
Semester 2
FeesLook up fees

Applied Ecology is the science of understanding and managing ecosystems. The subject describes and evaluates the applications of ecological concepts for the conservation and management of natural and human-altered ecosystems. In particular, it identifies the implications of global and local changes for ecosystems, communities and individual species, especially within the Australian environment. It examines approaches to management and conservation of terrestrial resources and ecosystems, the control of pest species, and restoration of modified habitats.

Intended learning outcomes

 At the completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • describe the ways in which ecological principles and knowledge are applied to the management of terrestrial resources and ecosystems;
  • evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to managing terrestrial resources and ecosystems;
  • apply scientific principles to analysing conservation problems;
  • conduct practical data analysis for ecological management and conservation;
  • describe the link between ecological science and management decision making;
  • communicate effectively about ecological management to scientific and public audiences.

Generic skills

  • This subject builds upon existing generic scientific skills, and helps students develop their abilities to apply scientific principles to conservation problems, enhance their skills in data interpretation, and better understand the link between ecological science and management decision making. Students also learn how to access information from the primary scientific literature, through both electronic and traditional sources. The tutorial component of this subject teaches students practical skills in data analysis for management and conservation, and presentation skills for speaking to scientific and public audiences.

Last updated: 5 December 2024