University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 10

Semester: 1

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

This module will provide primarily seminar and practical-based analysis of the life-history requirements of foraging in marine mammals, geographical and physiological constraints on finding food, food and feeding with a focus on types of prey and adaptations by the prey, adaptations for marine mammals feeding in the marine environment, optimal foraging theory, and optimal diving theory. Initial lectures will focus on theoretical issues and description of methods to study foraging. Students will then conduct case-studies of marine-mammal foraging, which will be presented in a seminar format as a group. Some practical work will also be included.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Before taking this module you must pass BL3319

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: Introductory lecture plus 3 x 1-hour lectures (x 3 weeks), 2 x 2-hour student-led seminars (x 4 weeks)

Scheduled learning hours: 26

Guided independent study hours: 124

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Coursework = 60%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 40%
Practical examinations : 20%
Coursework: 40%

Re-assessment: 2-hour Written Examination = 40%, Existing Coursework = 60%

Personnel

Module teaching staff: Prof P Miller, Dr S Smout, Dr D Thompson