Description: This module introduces students unfamiliar with ecology to important ecological concepts, and for students who are familiar with ecology, it serves to harmonise concepts and terminology. Key concepts discussed include fitness, the niche, life history theory, demographics, competition, stoichiometry, disturbance, succession, and diversity partitioning. The first two weeks are structured around morning lectures introducing concepts, followed by independent reading, and concluding with afternoon seminars where students engage in discussions reflecting on the concepts. The module concludes with a seminar where students propose a new synthesis for ecology.
Learning outcomes: Describe and explain key ecological concepts such as fitness, niches, life histories, population dynamics, and community interactions. Analyse the interrelationships among ecological processes at individual, population, community, and ecosystem levels. Critically reflect on major theoretical frameworks and their relevance for understanding ecological patterns and dynamics. Harmonise ecological terminology and conceptual understanding to support interdisciplinary collaboration within ecological forecasting. Develop and communicate a coherent synthesis of ecological theory that integrates multiple perspectives and concepts.
Module group: Foundations of Ecological Forecasting
Credits: 5 ECTS
Lecturers: Prof. Dr. Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter, Dr. Christina Ganuza