AD0FEE: Ecology and the Environment

Module code: AD0FEE

Module provider: School of Agriculture, Policy and Development

Credits: 20

Level: F

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1

Module convenor: Ms Rebecca Jerrome , email: r.m.jerrome@reading.ac.uk

Module co-convenor: Dr Laura Girling, email: laura.girling@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s):

Co-requisite module(s):

Pre-requisite or Co-requisite module(s):

Module(s) excluded:

Placement information: NA

Academic year: 2025/6

Available to visiting students: No

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 11 April 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

This module will bridge the knowledge gap for students intending to undertake an undergraduate with a focus on the natural world. The module will explore key concepts and processes associated with both the physical and living environment; and the interactions of both within ecosystems. In addition to lectures, students will also undertake a field project with the opportunity to develop critical scientific skills  and to integrate module knowledge into the formation of a scientific report. 

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module, it is expected that students will be able to: 

1. Describe and explain the principles and processes underpinning the functioning of the Earth’s chemical and physical systems. 
2. Describe and explain key ecological concepts including species, populations; communities and ecosystems and apply knowledge to recognise the interactions and complexities within ecosystems and how changes may lead to ecological decline. 
3. Use standard practical techniques in ecology to understand how data can be used in environmental decision making.  

Module content

• Structure, properties and processes involved around the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere 
• Key nutrient cycles
• Global historical and contemporary climatic changes 
• Definitions and concepts based on the levels of biological organisation 
• Concepts around key biotic interaction  
• Definition, concepts and complexities of ecosystems 
• Introduction to nature conservation and restoration 
• Introduction to standard practical techniques in ecology 

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

Content will be delivered through face-to-face lectures and a series of seminars will provide an opportunity for formative learning including reflection on, and application of, content delivered in lectures, including opportunities to debate topical issues.

Other that will support summative assessment will include: a field practical session, follow-up field reflection and IT workshop. Online learning opportunities include; optional question sheets, recommended reading and weekly quizzes based on the weeks learning.

Support for academic writing and other practice related to the assessments will be given, supplementing provision delivered through the relevant key skills module, including writing with academic integrity.

Study hours

At least 50 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activities will be delivered in person, with the remaining hours for scheduled and self-scheduled teaching and learning activities delivered either in person or online. You will receive further details about how these hours will be delivered before the start of the module.