Syllabus for Behavioural Ecology

Learning outcomes

All animals are selected to pay close attention to the behaviour of others, be it conspecifics, prey or predators. The course treats these behaviours as evolved characters with a survival and a reproductive value. On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• account for and critically evaluate theories and models for sexual selection, foraging, mating and life history strategies, sociality, predation, speciation, personality and communication
• handle and present current problems in behavioural ecology, in writing as well as orally
• carry out and present practical studies in behavioural ecology
• independently and critically review scientific texts and theories
• identify and in a structured way discuss ethical issues related to animal testing.

Content

Sexual reproduction, ways of reproducing, and sexual selection. Models for sexual selection, foraging, alternative mating and life history strategies, cooperation and personality. The relationship between sexual selection and speciation, life history, sexual conflict and partner manipulation. The relationship between life history theory, energy use, predation and survival. The evolution of communication and design of signals. Orientation in current behavioural ecology research, with an aim to prepare for research.

Instruction

Teaching consists of lectures, group exercises (labs and computer exercises), group seminars and group as well as independent literature assignments. Independent work as well as discussions and group exercises make up an important part of the course. The course includes handling and presenting behavioural ecology problems in writing as well as orally, and independently and critically reviewing scientific texts and theories . Participation in group exercises, seminars and literature assignments are compulsory. The course employs integrated communication training with feedback and self-assessment.

Assessment

Modules: Theory 10 credits; Exercise 5 credits.

The module exercises require an active participation in group as well as independent assignments. The course ends with a written examination.

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.