BFE111 - Biology - Field Ecology and Identification I

Subject Title
Biology - Field Ecology and Identification I

Subject Description
This course serves as the student's first introduction to practical field ecology and field observations. With a focus on terrestrial species, students investigate biological requirements of Ontario fauna, and begin classification and identification of species (mammals, birds, insects, amphibians and reptiles). Topics such as seasonal and climate changes, sampling and monitoring techniques for wildlife, fieldwork techniques, and wildlife conservation will be covered.

Credit Status
One course credit.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. Describe key methodological approaches utilized by ecologists for field sampling as they pertain to mammals, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians.
2. Classify common Ontario mammals, birds, insects, reptiles and amphibians to the taxonomic level of family.
3. Identify seasonal changes on flora and fauna as a way of investigating adaptations.
4. Employ tracking techniques to monitor wildlife behaviour.
5. Identify forest communities found in Ontario.
6. Describe variables that determine the ecological fitness of an organism (e.g., adaptation, distribution, utilization of resources).
7. Identify field marks as way of noting growth patterns, disturbance, and regeneration in forests and fields.
8. Describe monitoring techniques utilized in long-term monitoring projects.
9. Demonstrate industry standards associated with professional fieldwork (e.g. navigation, comprehensive field notes, and utilization of photography).
10. Demonstrate an understanding of health and safety protocols associated with fieldwork.

Essential Employability Skills

    •  Communicate clearly, concisely and correctly in the written, spoken and visual form that fulfils the purpose and meets the needs of the audience.

    •  Respond to written, spoken, or visual messages in a manner that ensures effective communication.

    •  Apply a systematic approach to solve problems.

    •  Interact with others in groups or teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of goals.

    •  Manage the use of time and other resources to complete projects.

    •  Take responsibility for one's own actions, decisions, and consequences.

Academic Integrity
Seneca upholds a learning community that values academic integrity, honesty, fairness, trust, respect, responsibility and courage. These values enhance Seneca's commitment to deliver high-quality education and teaching excellence, while supporting a positive learning environment. Ensure that you are aware of Seneca's Academic Integrity Policy which can be found at: http://www.senecapolytechnic.ca/about/policies/academic-integrity-policy.html Review section 2 of the policy for details regarding approaches to supporting integrity. Section 2.3 and Appendix B of the policy describe various sanctions that can be applied, if there is suspected academic misconduct (e.g., contract cheating, cheating, falsification, impersonation or plagiarism).

Please visit the Academic Integrity website http://open2.senecac.on.ca/sites/academic-integrity/for-students to understand and learn more about how to prepare and submit work so that it supports academic integrity, and to avoid academic misconduct.

Discrimination/Harassment
All students and employees have the right to study and work in an environment that is free from discrimination and/or harassment. Language or activities that defeat this objective violate the College Policy on Discrimination/Harassment and shall not be tolerated. Information and assistance are available from the Student Conduct Office at student.conduct@senecapolytechnic.ca.

Accommodation for Students with Disabilities
The College will provide reasonable accommodation to students with disabilities in order to promote academic success. If you require accommodation, contact the Counselling and Accessibility Services Office at ext. 22900 to initiate the process for documenting, assessing and implementing your individual accommodation needs.

Camera Use and Recordings - Synchronous (Live) Classes
Synchronous (live) classes may be delivered in person, in a Flexible Learning space, or online through a Seneca web conferencing platform such as MS Teams or Zoom. Flexible Learning spaces are equipped with cameras, microphones, monitors and speakers that capture and stream instructor and student interactions, providing an in-person experience for students choosing to study online.

Students joining a live class online may be required to have a working camera in order to participate, or for certain activities (e.g. group work, assessments), and high-speed broadband access (e.g. Cable, DSL) is highly recommended. In the event students encounter circumstances that impact their ability to join the platform with their camera on, they should reach out to the professor to discuss. Live classes may be recorded and made available to students to support access to course content and promote student learning and success.

By attending live classes, students are consenting to the collection and use of their personal information for the purposes of administering the class and associated coursework. To learn more about Seneca's privacy practices, visit Privacy Notice.