Students

BIOL861 – Conservation and Management of Wild Populations

2017 – S1 External

General Information

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Unit convenor and teaching staff Unit convenor and teaching staff
Anthony Chariton
Credit points Credit points
4
Prerequisites Prerequisites
GSE804 or BIOL875 or (admission to MMarScMgt or MConsBiol or GradDipConsBiol or GradCertConsBiol or MSc)
Corequisites Corequisites
Co-badged status Co-badged status
Unit description Unit description
This unit deals with the theory and practice of the conservation and management of wild populations of animals and plants. Lectures and tutorials concentrate on the application of population biology to problems in wildlife conservation, including demographics, risk assessment, conservation genetics and monitoring protocols. Case studies will drawn from Australia and the rest of the world.

Important Academic Dates

Information about important academic dates including deadlines for withdrawing from units are available at https://www.mq.edu.au/study/calendar-of-dates

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, principles and methods of conservation biology as practiced at the scale of species and populations, including: 1) the processes influencing the demography and genetic structure of wild populations; 2) the mechanisms by which wild populations become locally and globally extinct; 3) procedures for prioritising species and populations for conservation; and 4) theory and practice of managing wild populations for conservation purposes.
  • Gather, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse information sources to make an assessment of extinction risk, potential conservation actions, and critical knowledge gaps, for particular species and populations.
  • Describe methods used to monitor wild populations, including the particular population-level parameters being measured, the potential sampling biases of these methods, ethical considerations, and their application to conservation.
  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

General Assessment Information

Assessment details

Details of assessments will be provided on iLearn and in class.

 

Assignment submission

All assignments will be digitally submitted through the appropriate Turnitin submission link on iLearn. No hardcopy / paper submissions are needed. All assessments need to be written in the students own words. 

 

Academic honesty

All assessments need to be written in the students own words. The penalties imposed by the University for plagiarism are serious and may include expulsion from the University. ANY evidence of plagiarism WILL be dealt with following University policy. Penalties for plagiarism range from a loss of marks to awarding of a zero depending on the level of plagiarism and reporting to Faculty disciplinary committee.

 

Extensions, penalties and Disruptions to Studies

The deadlines for assignments are not negotiable. If an assignment is submitted late a penalty of -10% of the mark allocated for the assignment will be deducted per day that any work is submitted late (i.e. 5 days late = -50% of marks available).

If you experience a serious and unavoidable disruption to your studies and require an extension for an assessment please submit a Disruptions to Studies notification via ask.mq.edu.au with supporting documentation, and a Professional Authority Form completed by your health care professional. If you anticipate a potentially serious and unavoidable disruption (e.g. upcoming surgery) speak to the unit convenor early and apply for an extension before the due date.

 

Unit completion

To pass this unit, students need to achieve an overall minimum grade of 50%.

 

Assessment submission

Submissions of all assessments for this unit will be electronic.

 

 

 

 

Assessment Tasks

Name Weighting Hurdle Due
Short Test 20% No Every 3rd week
Species Assessment 20% No Week 4
Project Outline 20% No Week 8
Project Proposa 40% No Week 13

Short Test

Due: Every 3rd week
Weighting: 20%

There will be a total of 4 open book tests (worth 5 marks each) to be completed in your own time. Each test will consist of a single short-answer question and will be based on any lecture or tutorial material given up to that point. The question will normally involve interpretation of a graph or some data. You will have one week in which to prepare and submit an answer to the question. Marks and feedback will become available after the test has been closed.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, principles and methods of conservation biology as practiced at the scale of species and populations, including: 1) the processes influencing the demography and genetic structure of wild populations; 2) the mechanisms by which wild populations become locally and globally extinct; 3) procedures for prioritising species and populations for conservation; and 4) theory and practice of managing wild populations for conservation purposes.

Species Assessment

Due: Week 4
Weighting: 20%

 

Prepare a concise report (of no more than 2 pages) on a threatened native Australasian species. The species must be listed on a national list of threatened species (such as the EPBC List of Threatened Fauna) or on the IUCN Red List). This presentation must address three points:

  • Risk Assessment: What is the current conservation status of the species? What criteria and evidence were used to make this assessment? What are the most important threats or other problems for this species?
  • Conservation Action: Propose one (1) potential conservation action that could lessen the extinction risk of the species. What problem or threat does this action address?
  • Knowledge Gap: Propose one (1) critical knowledge gap that must be addressed to better manage or assess this species. Why do we need to address this knowledge gap?

On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, principles and methods of conservation biology as practiced at the scale of species and populations, including: 1) the processes influencing the demography and genetic structure of wild populations; 2) the mechanisms by which wild populations become locally and globally extinct; 3) procedures for prioritising species and populations for conservation; and 4) theory and practice of managing wild populations for conservation purposes.
  • Gather, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse information sources to make an assessment of extinction risk, potential conservation actions, and critical knowledge gaps, for particular species and populations.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Project Outline

Due: Week 8
Weighting: 20%

Prepare a concise outline for a project that involves monitoring and/or experimental manipulation of your chosen Australasian species (the same as for your Species Assessment) that assesses a conservation action or addresses a critical knowledge gap. This proposal will include a clear research question(s), a description of the data to be collected and a brief description of the experimental or sampling design. This project will be the same as you use for your Project Proposal. The outline should be no more than three pages, including figures and references.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, principles and methods of conservation biology as practiced at the scale of species and populations, including: 1) the processes influencing the demography and genetic structure of wild populations; 2) the mechanisms by which wild populations become locally and globally extinct; 3) procedures for prioritising species and populations for conservation; and 4) theory and practice of managing wild populations for conservation purposes.
  • Gather, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse information sources to make an assessment of extinction risk, potential conservation actions, and critical knowledge gaps, for particular species and populations.
  • Describe methods used to monitor wild populations, including the particular population-level parameters being measured, the potential sampling biases of these methods, ethical considerations, and their application to conservation.
  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Project Proposa

Due: Week 13
Weighting: 40%

You will make a Project Proposal, including essential background, research question, study design, ethical concerns, appropriate timelines, realistic budget and expected outcomes, that expands upon your Project Outline assignment. This proposal will be in the form of an application for a grant for funding over a 3-year period.


On successful completion you will be able to:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, principles and methods of conservation biology as practiced at the scale of species and populations, including: 1) the processes influencing the demography and genetic structure of wild populations; 2) the mechanisms by which wild populations become locally and globally extinct; 3) procedures for prioritising species and populations for conservation; and 4) theory and practice of managing wild populations for conservation purposes.
  • Gather, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse information sources to make an assessment of extinction risk, potential conservation actions, and critical knowledge gaps, for particular species and populations.
  • Describe methods used to monitor wild populations, including the particular population-level parameters being measured, the potential sampling biases of these methods, ethical considerations, and their application to conservation.
  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Delivery and Resources

 

Delivery for internal students

Internal students are expected to attend weekly lectures and tutorials. Times and venues can be found in the university timetable. If unable to make the scheduled times, please discuss options with the convenor.

Delivery for external students

Weekly lectures will be available online through the unit website. Tutorials can either be completed remotely or by attendance at the two weekend on-campus sessions. Dates for the on-campus sessions can be found in the university timetable. Attendance at on-campus sessions is highly recommended but not compulsory.

Textbook

There is no required textbook for this unit, although the following is a recommended reference:

  • Mills (2013) Conservation of Wildlife Populations: Demography, Genetics and Management. Wiley-Blackwell.

Computing requirements

Access to a computer with basic office software and an internet connection is required for assignments. Some tutorials require software that runs on Windows. A computer lab with PCs running Windows 8 will be used during tutorials and is also available at other times to postgraduate coursework students.

 

Learning and Teaching Activities

Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology.

Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central. Students should be aware of the following policies in particular with regard to Learning and Teaching:

Academic Honesty Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/academic_honesty/policy.html

Assessment Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/assessment/policy_2016.html

Grade Appeal Policy http://mq.edu.au/policy/docs/gradeappeal/policy.html

Complaint Management Procedure for Students and Members of the Public http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/complaint_management/procedure.html​

Disruption to Studies Policy (in effect until Dec 4th, 2017): http://www.mq.edu.au/policy/docs/disruption_studies/policy.html

Special Consideration Policy (in effect from Dec 4th, 2017): https://staff.mq.edu.au/work/strategy-planning-and-governance/university-policies-and-procedures/policies/special-consideration

In addition, a number of other policies can be found in the Learning and Teaching Category of Policy Central.

Student Code of Conduct

Macquarie University students have a responsibility to be familiar with the Student Code of Conduct: https://students.mq.edu.au/support/student_conduct/

Results

Results shown in iLearn, or released directly by your Unit Convenor, are not confirmed as they are subject to final approval by the University. Once approved, final results will be sent to your student email address and will be made available in eStudent. For more information visit ask.mq.edu.au.

Late assignments and extensions

Late tasks will be accepted up to 7 days after the submission deadline. There will be a deduction of 10% of the total available marks made from the total awarded mark for each 24 hour period or part thereof that the submission is late. This penalty does not apply for cases in which an application for an extension or special consideration is made and approved. Applications for extensions should be made directly to the unit convenors prior to the due date of the assignment. An extension will only be granted after the due date if evidence of misfortune can be provided. Students considering applying for Special Consideration (see policy above) should first consult with the unit convenors.

Student Support

Macquarie University provides a range of support services for students. For details, visit http://students.mq.edu.au/support/

Learning Skills

Learning Skills (mq.edu.au/learningskills) provides academic writing resources and study strategies to improve your marks and take control of your study.

Student Services and Support

Students with a disability are encouraged to contact the Disability Service who can provide appropriate help with any issues that arise during their studies.

Student Enquiries

For all student enquiries, visit Student Connect at ask.mq.edu.au

IT Help

For help with University computer systems and technology, visit http://www.mq.edu.au/about_us/offices_and_units/information_technology/help/

When using the University's IT, you must adhere to the Acceptable Use of IT Resources Policy. The policy applies to all who connect to the MQ network including students.

Graduate Capabilities

PG - Capable of Professional and Personal Judgment and Initiative

Our postgraduates will demonstrate a high standard of discernment and common sense in their professional and personal judgment. They will have the ability to make informed choices and decisions that reflect both the nature of their professional work and their personal perspectives.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcome

  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.

Assessment tasks

  • Project Outline
  • Project Proposa

PG - Discipline Knowledge and Skills

Our postgraduates will be able to demonstrate a significantly enhanced depth and breadth of knowledge, scholarly understanding, and specific subject content knowledge in their chosen fields.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge of the concepts, principles and methods of conservation biology as practiced at the scale of species and populations, including: 1) the processes influencing the demography and genetic structure of wild populations; 2) the mechanisms by which wild populations become locally and globally extinct; 3) procedures for prioritising species and populations for conservation; and 4) theory and practice of managing wild populations for conservation purposes.
  • Gather, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse information sources to make an assessment of extinction risk, potential conservation actions, and critical knowledge gaps, for particular species and populations.
  • Describe methods used to monitor wild populations, including the particular population-level parameters being measured, the potential sampling biases of these methods, ethical considerations, and their application to conservation.
  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Assessment tasks

  • Short Test
  • Species Assessment
  • Project Outline
  • Project Proposa

PG - Critical, Analytical and Integrative Thinking

Our postgraduates will be capable of utilising and reflecting on prior knowledge and experience, of applying higher level critical thinking skills, and of integrating and synthesising learning and knowledge from a range of sources and environments. A characteristic of this form of thinking is the generation of new, professionally oriented knowledge through personal or group-based critique of practice and theory.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Gather, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse information sources to make an assessment of extinction risk, potential conservation actions, and critical knowledge gaps, for particular species and populations.
  • Describe methods used to monitor wild populations, including the particular population-level parameters being measured, the potential sampling biases of these methods, ethical considerations, and their application to conservation.
  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Assessment tasks

  • Species Assessment
  • Project Outline
  • Project Proposa

PG - Research and Problem Solving Capability

Our postgraduates will be capable of systematic enquiry; able to use research skills to create new knowledge that can be applied to real world issues, or contribute to a field of study or practice to enhance society. They will be capable of creative questioning, problem finding and problem solving.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Gather, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse information sources to make an assessment of extinction risk, potential conservation actions, and critical knowledge gaps, for particular species and populations.
  • Describe methods used to monitor wild populations, including the particular population-level parameters being measured, the potential sampling biases of these methods, ethical considerations, and their application to conservation.
  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Assessment tasks

  • Species Assessment
  • Project Outline
  • Project Proposa

PG - Effective Communication

Our postgraduates will be able to communicate effectively and convey their views to different social, cultural, and professional audiences. They will be able to use a variety of technologically supported media to communicate with empathy using a range of written, spoken or visual formats.

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.
  • Review, critically evaluate and synthesise diverse scientific literature in the area of conservation biology and communicate an understanding of this in a written form.

Assessment tasks

  • Species Assessment
  • Project Outline
  • Project Proposa

PG - Engaged and Responsible, Active and Ethical Citizens

Our postgraduates will be ethically aware and capable of confident transformative action in relation to their professional responsibilities and the wider community. They will have a sense of connectedness with others and country and have a sense of mutual obligation. They will be able to appreciate the impact of their professional roles for social justice and inclusion related to national and global issues

This graduate capability is supported by:

Learning outcomes

  • Describe methods used to monitor wild populations, including the particular population-level parameters being measured, the potential sampling biases of these methods, ethical considerations, and their application to conservation.
  • Design a scientific study that implements population monitoring protocols to critically assess a conservation action, or addresses a critical knowledge gap, for a particular species or population.

Assessment tasks

  • Project Outline
  • Project Proposa