Geography
Geographies of the Living Earth
Module code: 019GRS
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Workshop
Assessment modes: Coursework, Report
On this module, you’ll explore the patterns and processes behind the distribution of biological diversity on the Earth.
This will include questions, such as:
- What factors influence where plants and animals occur?
- How have these drivers changed through time?
- How is the functioning of ecosystems influenced by historical and environmental processes?
You’ll examine the key biogeographical principles from both a temporal and spatial perspective. You’ll also determine how climate change and human actions have impacted our planet’s landscapes and biota.
You’ll use a range of techniques to understand how contemporary threats to biodiversity, ecosystem services and sustainable livelihoods will influence future conservation and environmental management strategies.
Module learning outcomes
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of biogeographical principles and the underlying geological, ecological and environmental processes that influence the distribution of species on Earth
- Understand how different biogeographical methods and techniques, such as remote sensing, palaeoecology and species distribution modelling, can be used to analyse and interpret biogeographical data and patterns.
- Assess and discuss the significance of biodiversity conservation, identify threatened areas, species, and ecosystems, and propose effective conservation strategies based on biogeographical principles.
- Evaluate the impact of human activities, such as habitat destruction, invasive species and climate change, on local and global ecosystems