BI2EN5-Animal Behaviour
Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5ECTS credits]
Level:
5
Terms in which taught: Spring
Module Convenor: Professor
RM
Sibly
Pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Module version for: 2009/0
Email: r.m.sibly@reading.ac.uk
Aims:
This module provides a general introduction to the study of animal behaviour and shows how facts are established. Attention is given to how and why central hypotheses are formulated, how experiments are designed to distinguish between hypotheses, and how the results are analysed and interpreted.
Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the unit it is expected that the student will be able to:
Additional outcomes:
Students gain experience of oral discussion of a scientific paper in a seminar.
Outline content:
This module provides a general introduction to the study of animal behaviour. Both the classical ethological and the selfish-gene approaches are described. In order to understand behaviour, it is necessary to consider its role in increasing the chances that an individual will survive and reproduce. Such considerations are relevant to man and domesticated animals as well as to 'wild' species. Topics covered may include: To what extent are behaviours genetically determined and to what extent do they depend on developmental experience? Why have some behaviours evolved in some situations but not others? How have altruistic behaviours evolved, and which individuals receive help? Why do animals fight and which individuals do they fight? In what circumstances do learning and communication have survival value? Suggestions for further reading are provided and you are encouraged to read around the lectures.
Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures introduce various aspects of animal behaviour. Students are expected to read and critically evaluate a scientific paper, with guidance being provided in a seminar. Practicals introduce quantitative techniques used to record and analyse behaviour and some illustrative films are shown.
Contact hours:
| Autumn | Spring | Summer | |
| Lectures | 10 | ||
| Tutorials/seminars | 1 | ||
| Practicals | 8 | ||
| Other contact (eg study visits) | 6(films) | ||
| Total hours | 25 | ||
| Number of essays or assignments | 2 multiple-choice tests | ||
| Other (eg major seminar paper) |
Assessment:
Coursework:
Performance in understanding practicals and films and evaluating a scientific paper is assessed using multiple choice tests.
Relative percentage of coursework: 30%
Examinations:
A one-and-half hour examination requiring the answer to two questions from four. This contributes 70% of the overall assessment.
Requirements for a pass:
A mark of 40% overall.
Reassessment arrangements:
Re-examination in August/September only.
Last updated: 23 November 2009