ENVS3005
10 units
3000 level
Course handbook
Description
Animal behaviour includes the ways animals interact with other living things, each other and their environment. Students will gain knowledge of the principles and current theoretical issues within the field. The course models the process of conducting scientific research in the field of animal behaviour from hypothesis formulation, to design, sampling, analysis and dissemination of findings. As such, the course encourages skill development in observing behaviour, formulating testable hypotheses, experimental design, data collection and analysis, and the presentation of findings in written scientific format. Further, theoretical instruction provides students with the requisite knowledge to be able to interpret and place their findings within the body of discipline-specific theory.
Availability2024 Course Timetables
Callaghan
- Semester 1 - 2024
Ourimbah
- Semester 1 - 2024
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the course students will be able to:
1. Apply knowledge of behavioural theory to new situations;
2. Interpret, summarise, validate and critique data from the scientific literature;
3. Work independently to design and execute a scientific study in the discipline area;
4. Formulate a hypothesis and robust experimental design;
5. Collect, analyse and interpret data statistically, and write a scientific paper based on data
6. Critically evaluate the work of peers.
Content
Proximate causes and ultimate function of behaviour, the adaptive nature of behaviour measuring behaviour, experimental design, sampling techniques, physiological basis of behaviour, the development of behaviour ontogeny, experience and learning, antipredator behaviour, communication and sociality, co-operation, altruism and kin selection, sexual selection, mating systems, parental care strategies, the art of scientific writing and peer review.
Requisite
This course replaces BIOL3350. If you have successfully completed BIOL3350 you cannot
enrol in this course.
Assumed knowledge
STAT1020 or STAT1070
Assessment items
Report: Zoo Report
Written Assignment: Draft and Final Scientific Paper; Peer Reviews and Presentation
Quiz: Multiple choice content questions
Contact hours
Semester 1 - 2024 - Callaghan
Computer Lab-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Field Study-1
- Face to Face Off Campus 20 hour(s) per term
Lecture-1
- Online 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 7 week(s) starting in week 2
Workshop-1
- Face to Face On Campus 32 hour(s) per term
- Workshop will involve 4 x 8hr workshops; Students will also be required to complete some self directed field based study for a Student Project.
Semester 1 - 2024 - Ourimbah
Computer Lab-1
- Face to Face On Campus 3 hour(s) per week(s) for 12 week(s) starting in week 1
Field Study-1
- Face to Face Off Campus 20 hour(s) per term
Lecture-1
- Online 2 hour(s) per week(s) for 7 week(s) starting in week 2
Workshop-1
- Face to Face On Campus 32 hour(s) per term
- Workshop will involve 4 x 8hr workshops; Students will also be required to complete some self directed field based study for a Student Project.
Course outline
- ENVS3005 - Semester 1, 2024 (All) (PDF, 133.1 KB)
The University of Newcastle acknowledges the traditional custodians of the lands within our footprint areas: Awabakal, Darkinjung, Biripai, Worimi, Wonnarua, and Eora Nations. We also pay respect to the wisdom of our Elders past and present.