BI3CP8-Palaeoecology

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites: BI2ERD4 Reptiles and Dinosaurs or BI2EV45 Vertebrate Zoology
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Brian Pickles
Email: b.j.pickles@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Undertake palaeontology research remotely, as an alternative to BI3PRFC Palaeoecology Research Field Course (currently unavailable due to the Covid-19 crisis). This module involves training in palaeontological statistical and practical methods, plus independent practical work in micropalaeontology. You will be provided with samples and resources for microfossil identification and data collection. This module will provide practical and academic skills training for students considering a research career.

Aims:

This module will provide an introduction to the study of palaeontology and palaeoecology, including the latest analytical methods and practical work undertaken independently and remotely.Ìý

Assessable learning outcomes:

Explain and apply quantitative and statistical research methods in palaeontology and palaeoecology. Undertake practical work in micropalaeontology and palaeoecology.

Structure and write a practical report including scientific descriptions of fossils discovered, descriptions of data and datasets collected, and biodiversity assessments, and discuss these critically in the light of stratigraphic context and current research.

Develop their written and visual (diagrams and figures) communication skills, and skills in the use of a microscope.

Additional outcomes:

Independent learning, confidence in applying knowledge to new fields and new problems

Outline content:

The staffing of modules is correct at the time of writing / publication);

Lectures will focus on the Cretaceous period in North America and cover topics including: principles of palaeontology and palaeoecology, Cretaceous ecosystems and biodiversity, geological context (stratigraphy, palaeobiogeography), field skills (mapping, excavation, fossil preparation and extraction), and fossil identification and curation (creating a key, note taking). There will also be an introduction to the use of phylogenetic methods in palaeobiology

Global context:

Samples for microfossil ID are from Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta, Canada, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Research conducted remotely by ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø students will contribute to ongoing research into the biodiversity of Cretaceous ecosystems. Students will interact remotely with researchers and graduate students from Australia (New England University) and researchers from Canada (Royal Tyrrell Museum).

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module is designed for remote learning and therefore materials will be provided in the form of webinars, pre-recorded lectures and videos, online tutorials, and self-study. Students will be provided with samples of substrate containing microfossils and a magnifying lens that can be attached to a smartphone camera.