Life Sciences

Conservation in Practice

Module code: C1113
Level 6
30 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Fieldwork, Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Computer based exam, Coursework

We aim to:

• familiarise you with the management practices required to maintain key habitats in western Europe, and with conservation issues concerning specific groups of organisms in those habitats
• examine issues in practical conservation at the level of NGOs, governments and society in general
• introduce you to professionals currently working in conservation to give you a realistic idea of what the work involves, as well as an indication of employment opportunities.

You'll get a combination of lectures, seminars by guest speakers and field visits to nature reserves for demonstrations of practical conservation management and survey techniques.

Module learning outcomes

• Evaluate the role of management in conservation of 1) a range of Western European habitats and 2) specific taxonomic groups.
• Evaluate the role of key UK conservation organisations (governmental and non-governmental) and how they achieve their goals.
• Explain the role of legislation in conservation.
• Explain the role of sustainable development in reconciling economic and environmental interests.