University of Galway

Course Module Information

Course Modules

Semester 1 and Spring | Credits: 5

The module objective is to introduce students to a variety of techniques used for ecological field surveys. Methodologies include frame and pin vegetation quadrats, animal surveys using small mammal traps and freshwater surveys with reference to macroinvertebrate sampling and associated physical parameters. Data from field exercises are analysed and discussed in class with the objective of encouraging students to critically appraise data with reference to methodological limitations.

Learning Outcomes
  1. Design and execute appropriate ecological sampling design for both plant and animal species and communities
  2. Identify appropriate environmental variables and employ relevant techniques in collecting such data
  3. Plan monitoring programmes for relevant environmental variables or species and assess both the effectiveness and the importance of the monitored site
  4. Analyse survey data gathered and critically assess the analyses carried out by others
  5. Apply all the learning outcomes above to benefit species monitoring and management to promote the protection of terrestrial and aquatic species in line with SDGs 14 and 15.
Assessments
  • Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers
Reading List
  1. "Ireland" by Cabot, D.
    Publisher: New Naturalist Library
  2. "The wild flowers of Ireland." by Doogue, D & Krieger, C
    Publisher: Gill & Macmillan.
  3. "An Irish Beast Book." by Fairley, J S
    Publisher: The Blackstaff Press.
  4. "The natural history of Ulster." by Faulkner, J & Thompson, R.
    Publisher: National Museums Northern Ireland.
  5. "Offaly's wildflowers." by Feehan, J.
    Publisher: Offaly County Council.
  6. "Exploring Irish Mammals." by Hayden, T, Harrington, R & Clarke, B.
    Publisher: Town House Press.
  7. "Galway’s living landscapes: Part 1 Eskers." by Hennessy, R., Feely, M., Cunniffe, C. & Carlin, C.
    Publisher: Galway County Council.
  8. "Wetlands of Ireland: Distribution, Ecology, Uses and Economic Value." by Otte, M. L.
    Publisher: University College Dublin Press
  9. "Flora Hibernica." by Pilcher, J. & Hall, V.
    Publisher: Collins Press
  10. "Ireland. Smithsonian Natural History Series." by Viney, M.
    Publisher: Smithsonian Books.
The above information outlines module EV514: "Ecological Survey Techniques" and is valid from 2023 onwards.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.