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Biology Teaching and Learning Centre · ANU College of Science and Medicine
This course deals with patterns of biodiversity at large spatial and temporal scales, and the processes that have generated these patterns. Surprisingly, there are many fundamental questions about biodiversity that remain a matter of debate. For example, why are there so many species in the tropics? Did the extinction of dinosaurs pave the way for the rise of mammals? What causes one species to diverge into two? Equally surprisingly to many people, it is possible to test “big-picture” questions like these using a set of basic logical principles and analytical tools, and an ever-expanding database of molecular, geographic and ecological information on the world's species. The aim of this course is not to present you with facts to memorize, but to equip you with the skills to ask interesting questions about biodiversity, and develop creative and elegant ways to answer them. This is a challenging and rewarding course that requires students to think creatively, take charge of framing, investigating and answering questions, consider different viewpoints and come to their own opinions. The course is taught through workshops which give students a chance to explore and discuss ideas, so attendance of all face-to-face classes is an essential component of this course. The course emphasizes individual study and critical thinking. Note: Graduate students attend joint classes with undergraduates but are assessed separately
Regular online quizzes on topics covered in classes and required reading
Learning outcomes 1
Explainer (written, electronic media or presentation) of a key idea in macroevolution and macroecology
Learning outcomes 2
Feedback on explainers
Learning outcomes 3
Computer-based workshops with accompanying written report
Learning outcomes 3, 4
In class tests
Learning outcomes 1, 2, 3
Critical review of a key idea or hypothesis in biodiversity
Learning outcomes 5
The expected workload will consist of approximately 130 hours including: - Students are expected to attend three face-to-face discussion-based workshops per week throughout the semester (total to 36 hours). These classes are not recorded and staff will not be able to provide class notes. - Approximately 94 hours of self-directed study in their own time, which may involve working with other students, preparation for workshops, working in discussion groups, reading, investigating and other assessment tasks. Students are expected to actively participate and contribute towards discussions. Other Information Please email rsb.studentadmin@anu.edu.au to request a permission code to enrol in this course.
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