Behavioural Ecology (C1020)

15 credits, Level 6

Autumn teaching

Explore the evolution and ecology of the behaviour of non-human animals.

The module will introduce you to key concepts and methods for studying the evolution of animal behaviour. This includes optimisation modelling and game theory. You’ll then apply these concepts to specific areas, such as:

  • foraging
  • animal contests
  • alternative strategies
  • mating
  • social behaviour.

Teaching

68%: Lecture
8%: Practical (Fieldwork)
24%: Seminar

Assessment

30%: Coursework (Presentation)
70%: Examination (Computer-based examination)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 23 hours of contact time and about 127 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2024/25. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.