This module is designed to provide you with an understanding of, and appreciation for, how animals adapt to the varied environments in which they live, in response to the problems of life associated with each unique environment. This includes how and why the animals have evolved the way they did in terms of their morphology, physiology and behaviour while considering the ecology of each habitat type. While the majority of the module looks back at animal evolution, part of it looks forward too by broaching the topics of anthropogenic environments and what animals need to do to continue surviving in the Anthropocene.
Behavioural Ecology builds on theory and practical skills introduced at level 4. In this module, you will develop your understanding of how evolutionary theory enables us to explain and predict animals' behaviour as a product of selective pressures in their natural environment. Practical sessions will enable you to practice behavioural observation and measurement skills. You will be supported to develop a full proposal for a study investigating an area of your choice throughout the module.
This module explores the interaction between organisms within ocean environments and the physical and chemical processes that govern them, together with providing a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems, their dynamics, and the impact of human activities on the marine environment. Key topics include the physical and chemical properties of the ocean, including ocean currents, circulation patterns, and nutrient cycling which is crucial for predicting how the oceans will respond to environmental changes, such as climate change and ocean acidification as well as considering how some of these topics align with UN sustainable development goals. The module also explores the diversity of marine organisms, their interactions, and how they are influenced by abiotic factors such as temperature, salinity, and nutrient availability. You will also discover the ecological processes that drive marine systems, so you can better understand the functioning of marine ecosystems and the services they provide to humans.
In this module, you will have the opportunity to put theory into practice and build essential skills for your future career by gaining invaluable real-world experience through a structured, university-level work placement for 4, 5 or 7 weeks as one continuous block / period with a placement provider (i.e. a local employer from the private, public, or charitable sector). You will develop practical, analytical, and professional skills relevant to your subject, while also enhancing transferable skills that are vital in any graduate-level role. Therefore this module will enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.
Through hands-on experiences, you will critically reflect on your personal and professional growth, using these insights to shape your career path and identify areas for continued development. You'll take ownership of your learning, ensuring that you can effectively articulate your employability skills in a professional context, and be well-prepared for the workplace. This module empowers you to explore new environments, apply your knowledge, and discover how your academic training translates into real-world impact, boosting your confidence and work readiness.
It is your responsibility to organise the placement as part of this module although you will be provided with support from university staff.
All work placements within this module must be university-level; this means:
- Undertaking high-skilled work commensurate with level 5 study (e.g. report writing, attending meetings, delivering presentations, producing spreadsheets, writing content on webpages, social media, marketing services/products etc.)
- Physically placed (albeit part of it can be hybrid) within an employer setting in one continuous block / period for 4, 5 or 7 weeks for a minimum of 140-147 hours over the course of the entire work placement
- Where applicable, your existing part-time employer can be approached/used as the placement provider, if the high-skilled work criterion above is fulfilled for the full duration of the placement.
- All quality assurances/agreements provided by the University are adhered to, by you and the employer.
The work placement context may not necessarily, reflect your degree discipline per se, but rather, it will give you an enriched experience to enhance your professional skills in a real-world job setting.
Choose one of the following:
- Professional Placement (40 Credits) Optional
- Term abroad (40 Credits) Optional
- One of the following Language options
Advanced Language Development and Global Sustainability (40 Credits) Optional
The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at advanced level. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a sustainability issue in a target language country. The first half of the module will prepare you for placements abroad where appropriate as well as a deeper understanding of sustainability in target language contexts.
Developing Intercultural Literacy and Cross-Cultural Skills (40 Credits) Optional
- The multiple facets of global citizenship
- Ethical engagement and practice
- The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
- Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
- Intercultural communication
- Culture shock
- Cultural adjustment
- Self- assessment of needs: identification of the range of transferable skills, competencies and attitudes employees need and employers expect graduates to possess-with a strong focus on understanding the intercultural competencies (ICC) needed to live and work abroad.
- Critical analysis/evaluation of individual requirements in relation to culture/cultural adjustment/culture shock/visas/medical.
- Critical analysis/evaluation of skills already acquired in relation to key skills related to ICC.
- Devising strategies to improve one’s own prospects of working abroad in the future.
- Devising an action plan to address gaps in transferable skills based on organisational analysis and sector opportunities.
Experiential Overseas Learning (40 Credits) Optional
Preparation for Experiential Overseas Learning will take place at the University of Chester during level 5 and will include:
- The multiple facets of Global citizenship
- Ethical engagement and practice
- Cross-cultural issues and sensitivity
- Intercultural communication
- Theories, models and strategies of learning
Theories and models Intercultural competence
- Theories and models of Integration and Multiculturalism
- Critical thinking skills and models of Reflection
- Experiential learning models
- Self-directed experiential learning
Personal and placement-related skills
- Enhanced independence
- Improved command of multicultural behaviour
- Increased knowledge and confidence in their individual facets of personal identity
- Effective time management and organisational skills
- Project management – working away from University and independent study
- Self-management and personal development
- Team building and team work
Part B: Overseas
Students will engage in experiential learning activities overseas for at least 150 hours
Post Beginner Language Development and Global Cultures (40 Credits) Optional
The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at beginner level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes a placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a cultural issue in a target language country.
Upper Intermediate Language Development and Global Employability (40 Credits) Optional
The module will provide the opportunity to further develop your language skills, building on your previous learning at intermediate level. The first half of the module includes intensive taught sessions in interactive workshop mode which will prepare you for placements abroad or self-directed language development. The second half of the module includes an placement abroad or, alternatively, a project on a business or tourism issue in a target language country.
Or you can choose ONE of the following:
- University Placement Year Optional
- Subject Placement Year Optional
- International University Placement Year Optional