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Experimental Animal Behaviour (ZOOL30007)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5On Campus (Parkville)

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Overview

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Semester 1
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In this subject you will conduct group-based, hands-on, original research into animal behaviour. Over the semester you will be immersed in the entire process of scientific research - from hypothesis development and experimental design, through to data collection and statistical analysis. You will report your findings in spoken and written formats, and critically review the work of other students. Study animals range from insects and spiders, to fish, birds and mammals – in the lab, zoo or wild. You will emerge with an authentic experience of scientific research – complete with its challenges, frustrations and the thrill of scientific discovery.

Intended learning outcomes

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

  • Locate and synthesise relevant information from the literature in order to establish the aims, scope and context of a research project
  • Develop a rigorous observational or experimental study that addresses the aims of the project
  • Undertake methodologically rigorous data collection and data analysis
  • Identify and interpret patterns in data, and, using appropriate statistical inference, relate discoveries and insights to relevant published literature on the topic
  • Provide constructive and authoritative feedback on written and oral reports of other students through peer review
  • Draw on peer reviews of their own work to redraft, reframe and refine their ideas
  • Communicate a rational, lucid, scientific argument in a written report and either as an oral or poster presentation
  • Collaborate effectively with student peers in a team to achieve excellent project outcomes

Generic skills

This subject builds upon existing generic skills, including the ability to:

  • Assimilate and critically evaluate new knowledge within a scientific paradigm
  • Communicate orally or in writing all aspects of the project (rationale, design, analysis, outcomes)
  • Organise activities towards a goal and work cooperatively and constructively as a member of a research team
  • Conduct statistical analysis, interpretation and critical evaluation of scientific data
  • Provide and respond to peer feedback

Last updated: 19 September 2024