Course Catalogue

The Animal Behaviour programme aims to develop a core of knowledge, understanding and skills associated with the scientific study of animal behaviour, in order to produce graduates who are equipped to pursue employment in animal welfare, husbandry, conservation and research. Core modules provide a comprehensive understanding to four key explanations of animal behaviour: 1. The adaptive function of behaviour in the wild 2. The evolutionary history of behaviour 3. The physiological underpinnings (neural and hormonal control) of behaviour 4. The development of processes involved in the expression of behaviour The programme aims to provide opportunities for work-related learning to enable students to engage with the applied nature of animal behaviour and appreciate how their skills and learning can contribute to their future career. To encourage students to engage with the development of employability skills by completing a self-awareness statement. In addition to the aims for the main target award, the sandwich programme aims to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give the students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study, as well as attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment.

The acquisition of knowledge is promoted through formal taught sessions including lectures, structured workshops, laboratory practicals, computer sessions and fieldwork. Understanding is facilitated through seminars, tutorials, workshops, field projects, group work, interactive classroom activities and independent study. Knowledge and understanding is assessed via examination (multiple choice, short answer, essay and interpretative questions) and coursework such as laboratory and field reports, poster and seminar presentations, essays, data interpretation exercises, reflective practice and problem-based learning. Cognitive skills are developed in many interactive and hands-on sessions such as workshops, practicals, seminars, tutorials, IT workshops and directed independent learning, with an increasing emphasis as students progress from level 4 to level 6. Such skills are especially developed during laboratory/fieldwork, workshops and tutorials and during the Research Project / Work-based Learning modules. Essay / interpretative exam questions are used to assess students' ability for critical thinking. Coursework elements such as field / laboratory reports, problem-based learning exercises and, in particular, the Research Project or Work-based Learning report allow students to demonstrate the full range of their cognitive skills. Practical skills are taught during practical (laboratory/computer) classes and fieldwork, which form a component of the teaching on all modules. Core principles and minimum standards required for effective field and laboratory work are introduced at Level 4. Methods and specialist equipment for the collection and analysis of behavioural data from observational studies are introduced at level 4 and developed at level 5. Students develop these skills independently at level 6 in practical and field work sessions and when completing the Research Project or Work-based Learning placement. Practical skills are assessed directly in practical / fieldwork / computer workshop sessions and by submission of practical schedules or field /laboratory reports and online tests. The Research Project / Work-based Learning portfolio and other Level 6 reports allow students to demonstrate the full range of skills they have acquired. As well as having the opportunity to develop transferable skills in all academic modules, key skills are specifically taught in specially designed core modules at each level. These are as follows: Level 4 Fundamentals of Scientific Research; Level 5 Research Skills & Employability; Level 6 Research Project or Work-based Learning. Teaching in these modules includes delivery via small tutorial groups, seminars, computer sessions and workshops. Transferable skills are assessed through coursework (e.g. scientific writing, oral presentation, poster presentation and field reports) at all levels across modules and specifically in the core modules mentioned above.

Graduate Skills are taught and practised within a wide range of modules and assessed within the core modules at Level 4 Fundamentals of Scientific Research, Level 5 Research Skills & Employability and at Level 6 Research Project and/or Work-based Learning. Additional opportunity is provided through modules at Level 5 (Animal Field Skills) & Level 6 (International Expedition). Work-related learning opportunities are available through e.g. employer seminars, guest lectures / workshops, employer-driven assignments or contact during fieldwork. The Work-based Learning placement (135 hrs) and the Sandwich placement (12 months) offer the opportunity for students to gain work experience with a relevant, professional, animal based organisation. The School has a good record of providing relevant, vocational training for students. Students are supported by the Professional Training Tutor who is responsible for advertising placements and promoting vocational training to students. Appropriate Work-based Learning or Sandwich placements (home or abroad) include working with e.g. zoos, wildlife parks; animal welfare and rescue centres; RSPCA; police, behaviour consultants, animal assisted therapy centres, kennels / catteries / livery yards; conservation trusts.