BI3PAE1: Practical and Applied Entomology

Module code: BI3PAE1

Module provider: School of Biological Sciences

Credits: 20

Level: 6

When you’ll be taught: Semester 1

Module convenor: Dr Chris Foster , email: c.w.foster@reading.ac.uk

Module co-convenor: Dr Sofia Gripenberg, email: s.gripenberg@reading.ac.uk

Pre-requisite module(s): BEFORE TAKING THIS MODULE YOU MUST TAKE BI2IZ2 OR TAKE BI2EX5 (Compulsory)

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: No

Last updated: 3 April 2025

Overview

Module aims and purpose

This module takes an in-depth look at the most diverse group of terrestrial animals, insects. Taught through a series of research seminars and hands-on workshops, we will consider aspects of how insects interact with their environment and with human society, with a particular focus on applied entomology. Topics may include insect conservation, taxonomy, decomposition, nutrient cycling, pest regulation, pollination, disease vectors, insect pests and forensic entomology. Assessment focuses on developing the practical techniques required to pursue further study in one of these topics.

Module learning outcomes

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

1. Appreciate the range of topics which benefit from an entomological perspective 
2. Understand how insects interact with their environment and human society  
3. Demonstrate an understanding of the diversity of methods used in entomological studies 
4. Develop a range of practical skills required to study insects  

Module content

Students will participate in a series of seminars given by the module convenors, other academics or postgraduates at the ÌÇÐÄ̽»¨ working on insects and guest speakers depending on availability. These will cover a broad range of topics relevant to entomology and have a particular focus on skills and the practical techniques used in the research or professional practice discussed. ÌÇÐÄ̽»¨ will be assigned in advance of each seminar. Topics may include forensics, insects as pests and disease vectors, pollination, pest regulation, nutrient cycling, decomposition, taxonomy, and insect conservation.  

Practical sessions will consider the collection, preparation and maintenance of insect specimens for scientific study, and the management of live insect cultures, especially regarding how these relate to topics covered in the seminars. Practical sessions will take advantage of the entomology laboratory including ÌÇÐÄ̽»¨â€™s collection of live stored product pests, insect collections in the Cole museum, and may involve opportunities to participate in insect monitoring on Whiteknights campus.  

Structure

Teaching and learning methods

Taught through seminars, which will feature a short presentation(s) and time for discussion, and practical workshops in the laboratory and field (on campus) focused on research skills in entomology.  

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.