Module GEOL2277: PALAEOECOLOGY

Department: Earth Sciences

GEOL2277: PALAEOECOLOGY

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• Through research-led teaching this module will introduce the principles of palaeoecology and the analysis of fossil assemblages.

Content

• Taxonomy - describing the classifying fossils as species and higher taxonomic groups.
• Taphonomy - processes that control the quality of the fossil record.
• Palaeoecology and processes that control the spatial distribution of organisms at the present day and in the past.
• Functional morphology - elucidating the function of structures in extinct organisms.
• Trace fossils
• Biostratigraphy
• Micropalaeontology
• Case studies

Learning Outcomes

• Through research-led learning students will develop a depth of knowledge and research skills in the area of palaeoecology.
• Where appropriate a quantitative approach will be followed.
• Will have acquired subject knowledge and understanding in palaeontological principles, terms, definitions and classifications.
• To describe the processes that control the quality of the fossil record.
• To understand the processes that control the spatial distribution of organisms at the present day and in the past.
• To understand the applications of fossils in understanding Earth history.

• Students will master complex and specialized knowledge, concepts and ideas in palaeontology. These will include:
• Methods in classification: systematic palaeontology, phenetics and cladistics
• Biometrics (univariate statistics, linear regression)
• Quantitative palaeoecology
• The chemistry of taphonomy
• Characterising populations and communities
• Methods in palaeobiogeography
• Traditional and quantitative biostratigraphy
• Writing a scientific paper.

• In addition to subject specific skills this module will give students the background for a further degree in palaeontology and allied sciences. Students will also develop through enquiry-led learning a range of skills valued by employers:
• an ability to work autonomously or as part of a team
• to communicate in written form the results of their own work to their peers
• to be numerate
• to develop an adaptable, flexible, innovative and creative approach to work and problem solving
• recognizing and respecting the views of others
• an ability to set goals, work to deadlines and accept personal responsibility for continued professional development.
• Graduate qualities taught and assessed in this module include:
• Critical analysis,
• Research Capability,
• Engage with professional world,
• Scholarship,
• Practical competency,
• Independent learning,
• Numeracy,
• IT skills,
• Information skills,
• Literacy,
• Networking,
• Negotiation,
• Teamwork,
• Initiative and drive,
• Innovation and creativity,
• Problem solving,
• Time management,
• Continuing personal development.
• Adapting to change.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• The module is delivered through a flexible through a term of flexible three-hour slots comprising lectures and practical work supported by handouts, directed reading and feedback. Formative tests will be used to monitor progress. Guidance will be given on writing a scientific paper.
• The module will be summatively assessed through a 2,500 word paper and laboratory notebook.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

Weekly short answer tests.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University