2020-2021 / BIOL0865-1

Introduction to the biology of conservation

Duration

15h Th

Number of credits

 Bachelor in biology2 crédits 

Lecturer

Nicolas Magain

Language(s) of instruction

French language

Organisation and examination

Teaching in the second semester

Schedule

Schedule online

Units courses prerequisite and corequisite

Prerequisite or corequisite units are presented within each program

Learning unit contents

Conservation biology can be seen as a concrete application of the principles of ecology (study of ecosystems). It is a question of determining what are the objectives to be achieved concerning the diversity and abundance of certain species in a given ecosystem, and what measures must be taken to achieve these objectives.
This course will be a first approach of concepts  of conservation biology, including
-The basic principles of conservation
-The conservation of nature as it is done in Western Europe
-The conservation of nature as it is done elsewhere in the world
-The different historical aspects that have led to the structuring of biodiversity in our regions and elsewhere in the world, and how this influences conservation strategies
-The history of man and his growing influence on the ecosystems he occupies
-The main threats to biodiversity in our regions and in the world
-The solutions that can be provided
-The importance of the different actors: scientists, politicians, economics, citizens, for nature conservation and land use planning
 

Learning outcomes of the learning unit

  This course is a first step in raising awareness of conservation issues. It aims for the student to acquire a good knowledge of these issues. In particular, the idea is that the student understands the complex interactions between species within ecosystems, and the great influence of man on these ecosystems.
It is also a matter of understanding that the current structuring of ecosystems takes place over a very long period of time, and the major stages which have led to the current situation.
It is also about understanding the complexity and number of actors involved when deciding conservation measures.              

Prerequisite knowledge and skills

No prerequisite. This course will be extended by the course "Conservation biology" of M1 BOE

Planned learning activities and teaching methods

The courses are given ex-cathedra. Specialists will be invited to address certain issues.


Students or volunteers working on conservation issues will come to meet the students when possible, to give concrete examples.
Different media (videos, internet) will be used.

Mode of delivery (face to face, distance learning, hybrid learning)

The course will be face-to-face if the situation allows it. A hybrid or remote solution will be implemented if the situation requires it.

Organisational adjustments related to the current health context

Recommended or required readings

Slideshows will be available on eCampus

Assessment methods and criteria

Below you will find information on the evaluation methods planned for in-person and remote exams as well as those planned for hybrid sessions. Depending on how the health crisis evolves, the chosen method will be communicated to you no later than one month before the start of the exam session.

Any session :

- In-person

written exam ( open-ended questions )

- Remote

written exam ( open-ended questions )

- If evaluation in "hybrid"

preferred in-person


Additional information:

Written exam on the themes seen during the course, and also asking the student to reflect on the various issues addressed

Work placement(s)

Organizational remarks

Contacts

Nicolas.magain@uliege.be