What will I learn on this module?
On this module you will learn about biodiversity and climate change: how we identify species, how we monitor species and how we can use that data to improve our environment. The module begins with an introduction to biodiversity, climate, the tree of life and taxonomy. This is followed by a series of in depth lectures on individual groups of organisms (groups covered dependent on staff specialisms). The module then flows through three teaching “blocks”. Each block will explore an aspect of biodiversity or climate change with practical work that will build into the module assignment. At the end of each block, you will be assessed by an individual interview or a concisely written professional report that makes recommendations for conservation, taking into account climate change.
How will I learn on this module?
The theory and background knowledge will be taught through lectures, including refreshers of relevant knowledge gained from prior modules. Your knowledge will be consolidated and you will develop your skills in species identification through hands-on lab, IT and field-based activities. Seminars are used to support your understanding and enhance your ability to successfully complete the assignment.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
All teaching materials for the module are made available on the module eLP site. The module involves lab-based, IT-based, and field-based teaching, giving you the opportunity to engage with staff for regular formative feedback. Teaching staff operate an ‘open door’ policy for students meaning you can approach them anytime during normal office hours, or via email, to answer questions, receive feedback and support your learning on the module. You may approach the module tutor for additional support as required.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. Online reading lists (provided after enrolment) give you access to your reading material for your modules. The Library works in partnership with your module tutors to ensure you have access to the material that you need.
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge and Understanding
MLO1 – Demonstrate an ability to apply knowledge of organisms to a conservation issue.
MLO2 – Relate climate change to issues of biodiversity and conservation
Intellectual / Professional Skills and Abilities
MLO3 – Apply taxonomy for the purposes of collecting data
MLO4 – Demonstrate the correct application of standard statistical tests
Personal Values Attributes
MLO5 – Demonstrate an ability to produce a professional report, oral or written, working to a concise time or page limit.
How will I be assessed?
You will be assessed on the three teaching blocks and your application of your knowledge of taxonomy, biodiversity and climate change for the purposes of making conservation recommendations.
The first two teaching blocks will be assessed by individual interviews, each lasting for 20 minutes.
The last teaching block will be assessed by a concisely written report with a maximum length of 2-pages (+ reference list). A template document with indicative word length for each section will be provided to support you.
All assessments will cover all Module Learning Outcomes.
Pre-requisite(s)
KE5014 Fundamentals of Ecology
Co-requisite(s)
None
Module abstract
How many species are there on Earth? Two million, 8.7 million, 100,000,000? How do you identify and document biodiversity? How has climate change affected biodiversity and how might it in the future? In this module you will gain the knowledge and practical skills to identify species using their morphology. You will use this to complete three in-depth studies on taxonomy, biodiversity and climate change to make practical conservation recommendations. The module starts with a broad overview of biodiversity and climate change, introduces you to taxonomy and the tree of life. After this you begin to explore particular groups and organisms in more depth including hands-on practical experience. This research-rich module gives you crucial practical skills (over 60% practical is lab and field work) for careers in ecology, conservation and scientific research.
Course info
UCAS Code F751
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Geography and Environmental Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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