James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2024

BS2460 - Fundamentals of Ecology

Subject Description

This subject is an introduction to key ecological concepts. General themes will be illustrated using local and global examples from terrestrial, marine, and freshwater ecosystems. Particular emphasis will be placed on the ecological processes that drive the evolution and maintenance of biodiversity, and how this relates to current conservation efforts. Tutorial and practical sessions will centre on fieldtrips that emphasise the practical aspects of collecting quantitative field data to address ecological questions.

Learning Outcomes

• ability to critically assess ecological hypotheses
• appreciation of the relationship between ecological theory and conservation and management of natural populations and communities
• be familiar with key concepts in population and community ecology

Subject Assessment

• Written > Examination (centrally administered) - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Test/Quiz 1 - (20%) - Individual
• Participation > Class participation - (20%) - Individual
• Written > Tutorial task - (20%) - Individual

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Special Assessment Requirements

Students enrolled in the Environmental Engineering course will attend additional tutorials

Assumed Knowledge:  Students enrolling in this subject should have a good understanding of level 1 biology or environmental science and are also recommended to have completed some introductory statistics prior to enrolling. Students should have the ability to use R for data analysis or have done the JCU R Bootcamp, which can be found on LearnJCU under Organisations, in the CSE 'Refresh' folder.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  AG2006 BZ2880 BZ5440 BZ5880 BZ2440 MB2060 BS5460

Availabilities