BI3ACB1: Advanced Conservation Biology

Module code: BI3ACB1

Module provider: School of Biological Sciences

Credits: 20

Level: 6

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1

Module convenor: Dr Vicky Boult , email: v.l.boult@reading.ac.uk

Module co-convenor: Dr Campbell Murn, email: c.p.murn@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: Yes

Talis reading list: Yes

Last updated: 14 July 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

Tackling the biodiversity crisis is not straightforward. Biodiversity faces a multitude of threats for which solutions do not follow a one-size-fits-all rule. Not only that, but how do we make biodiversity conservation count in a world with bigger problems? Limited funding, political impasse and competing priorities hamper conservation efforts at local to global scales.  

This module aims to explore the wider challenges facing biodiversity conservation as a whole and how we, as conservation biologists, may begin to address them. The module will examine project characteristics that lead to conservation success, including the role of conservation research, the need for multidisciplinary approaches, incorporation of diverse knowledge systems, consideration of interested parties, sustainability and scalability.  

Module learning outcomes

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

1. Critically assess past and present conservation case studies to identify characteristics that determine conservation success
2. Challenge current norms and mainstream narratives in biodiversity conservation based on an understanding of the complexities of conservation
3. Recognise the contribution of different disciplines and roles in biodiversity conservation
4. Evaluate innovative approaches to how we attempt to tackle the biodiversity crisis

Module content

From previous modules (Our Changing Planet, Conservation Science in Practice), students will have extensive knowledge of the threats facing biodiversity and how science can inform conservation practice. Advanced Conservation Biology takes a step back to consider how biodiversity conservation fits into a world facing, arguably, greater challenges. Through interactive lectures, students will explore challenges facing biodiversity conservation as a whole, including threats to funding, political impasse and competing priorities. Case studies will demonstrate these cross-cutting issues in a range of contexts and may shed light on possible solutions, drawing on expertise and experience in other disciplines, and considering the roles of interested parties. Practical activities will encourage students to challenge current norms in conservation and propose innovative approaches.

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

The learning outcomes will be met through a mixture of lectures, seminars, practical classes, self-directed learning and directed independent study. Appropriate supplementary information and reading lists will be provided on Blackboard.  

Lectures will introduce students to case studies examining the cross-cutting challenges facing biodiversity conservation. Through practicals and reflective exercises, students will be encouraged to critically evaluate cross-cutting challenges and potential innovative solutions.  

Study hours

At least 40 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.