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The study of the environment and its biodiversity necessitates an understanding of the basic approaches and methods in ecology. This includes ecological sampling, survey and research design, techniques for ecological data analysis and presentation, and the application of concepts and techniques to current ecological management issues. Knowledge of quantitative laboratory, field and analytical techniques is also critical for the effective management of natural resources. This course provides the fundamental knowledge and practical skills in ecological and environmental methods for students interested in professional careers as environmental scientists, field biologists, ecologists, wildlife managers and conservation biologists.

The unit provides a general overview of, and practical and theoretical considerations in, current ecological and environmental methods. Broad concepts in ecological methods are explored by simulation and field practical examples through a combination of independent and collaborative approaches. This unit provides a foundation in ecological methods through the exploration of the types and properties of ecological and biophysical data, sampling organisms and the environment, the design of ecological experiments, and analysis, interpretation and reporting of ecological data.

This course contains a mandatory residential school for both external and on-campus students in the form of an extended (3-day, overnight) field trip to UniSQ's Ravensbourne Field Studies Centre, Toowoomba. Accommodation, food and transport costs may be associated with this residential school.

On completion of this course students should be able to:

1. describe the scientific process of ecological experimentation, its limitations and applications, and the types and properties of ecological data;
2. apply knowledge and skills in the sampling of animal and plant populations and the theoretical considerations involved;
3. apply sampling theory and relate this to the study of organisms and communities in the field;
4. critically review and apply appropriate graphical and statistical techniques to analyse ecological data and accurately interpret patterns;
5. actively participate and collaborate in simulated and field practical activities applying ecological methods and experimentation.