Population Biology and Evolution 222

Main Outcomes
By the end of this module, students should be able to:
· describe methods used to collect field data and use them to estimate
population sizes of different organisms;
· identify and appraise the factors and processes that affect population
size and growth rate;
· develop simple computer models of populations and use them to
determine the most appropriate method to manage populations
sustainably;
· select and calculate appropriate statistics for summarizing simple
biological data, and for evaluating phylogenetic trees;
· evaluate the evidence for speciation and evolution;
· demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the theory of evolution and
phylogenetics;
· apply cladistic methodology and software to various kinds of data in
order to discover the historical relationships of organisms;
· apply the rules of nomenclature;
· create a new species description;
· take responsibility for organising and managing their time and
workload;
· work effectively with others, for mutual benefit, when appropriate;
· confidently present their work orally to an audience;
· prepare and write scientific reports within the sphere of accepted
norms, using rubrics;
· use a personal computer for simple data analysis;

Main Content
Basic population dynamics and life-tables. Age-structured population
models. Population census techniques. Intraspecific competition and
derivation of the logistic growth equation. Modeling populations
showing logistic growth. Harvesting natural populations deterministics
and stochastic models. Population fluctuations key factor analysis.
Adaptation and the theory of natural selection. Speciation processes and
patterns. Reconstruction of phylogeny, evolution and classification.
Concepts and principles of cladistics, modern systematics and taxonomy.

Breakdown of Learning Time

Contact with lecturer: 36 hours
Assignments and tasks: 30 hours
Practicals: 72 hours
Tests and examinations: 12 hours
Self study: 50 hours

Total Learning Time: 200 hours
Methods of Student Assessment:
Continuous assessment 60%
(Tests, assignments, practicals, practical exams)
Final exam 40%

Assessment Module type: CFA