Adequate number of specialist identification keys/guides, sampling equipment, access to a suitably equipped laboratory, internet access, use of the University Nature Reserve, and transport to field sites

1. Identification test (approx. 2 hours, 30 species) on grasses, herbs, trees, and non-flowering plants. 40%. To assess outcome 1.

2. Identification test (approx. 2 hours) on the chosen taxon. 40%. To assess outcome 2.

3. An ecological survey report (approx. 1500 - 2000 words) 20%. To assess outcome 3.

There will be a formative assessment of your knowledge base will be undertaken at an early stage of the module. This will enable you to benchmark your plant ID skills to what is required.

The module begins a series of practical workshops on identification skills for (12 hrs - likely to include mammals, insects, grasses, herbs and trees). The module is then largely student-centred. During this time you will be gaining experience and developing your ID skills. Many of the survey techniques will be carried out via field trips towards the end of the module (total 12 hrs), when the season is more appropriate.

Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management. 2004. Guidance on Survey Methodology

Sutherland, W.J. 1996. Ecological Census Techniques. CUP

Various taxon-specific identification keys

Identification skills are a vital component of being a professional ecologist. This aspect of the module begins with a brief introduction to the principles of taxonomy, followed by a series of practical workshops in which you will study the morphology of a range of taxa. You will focus in some detail on your chosen taxon (e.g. grasses, lichens, spiders, small mammals) to a taxonomic level and breadth negotiated with the tutor.

A number of survey techniques will also be introduced and practised towards the end of the module. This could include surveying for mammals, amphibians, reptiles, terrestrial invertebrates etc. Other techniques (e.g. Phase 1 habitat surveys, river corridor surveys, and sampling for freshwater invertebrates) will be carried out in other modules. We will also look at how information is obtained via desktop studies (e.g. via the National Biodiversity Network Gateway, and Biological Records Centres) and licensing issues when protected species are involved.

At the end of the module you would have had some experience of carrying out a variety of survey techniques, be competent at identifying a range of common plant species, and be proficient in identifying species in your chosen taxon.