Overview

This module will critically assess both concepts and techniques used in the restoration of degraded ecosystems. It will focus on the ecological theory underpinning ecological restoration and showcase how this theory is or should be used in restoration projects by showcasing cases for a range of globally important ecosystems. In this module, you will engage with the fundamental ecology that will prepare you to design, execute and evaluate the success of restoration projects in real life.

The preliminary syllabus of this module includes ten topics, divided over three thematic blocks. Block I will cover the conceptual basis and ecological theory underpinning ecological restoration; 1) Introduction to ecological restoration, 2) Setting objectives and evaluating success in restoration projects, 3) Ecological basis of restoration, Block II covers restoration scenarios and cases for tree-dominated ecosystems; 4) Restoration of woodlands in Britain, 5) Reforestation in (semi-)arid environments, 6) Restoration in burnt areas, 7) Restoration in tropical environments. Block III will cover restoration scenarios and cases for non-forested and man-made systems; 8) Restoration of lakes, wetlands, rivers and riverbanks, 9) Restoration in civic works and infrastructures, 10) On natives, aliens, invasive species and science-fiction in restoration. (NOTE: I have added a list of more specific indicative subjects for each of these ten topics as an addendum to this document).

Assessment Strategy

Grading Criteria

Threshold - A threshold student should have a basic knowledge of the essential facts and key concepts presented in the module. Written work should demonstrate a basic ability to synthesise and interpret data from lectures and readings in a structured and logical manner, and all assessments should demonstrate the general capacity to organise acquired knowledge. (Grade C; mark range 50-59%)

Good - A good student should have thorough factual knowledge across all aspects of the module and be able to cite examples and case studies where appropriate. Written work should demonstrate an ability to think about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and some information from background reading into coherent arguments. (Grade B; mark range 60-69%)

Excellent - An excellent student should have a high level of detailed factual knowledge across all aspects of the module and be able to detail examples and case studies where appropriate. Written work should demonstrate an ability to think critically about the subject and to synthesise lecture material and information from extensive background reading in support of detailed, developed arguments. (Grade A; mark range 70-100%)

Learning Outcomes

• Apply the theories underpinning ecological restoration to develop and execute different ecological restoration and management scenarios for a range of degraded ecosystems.

• Critically analyse and evaluate the ecological theory underpinning the ecological restoration of degraded ecosystems.

• Demonstrate expertise allowing you to critically assess drivers of ecosystem degradation and its ecological and socio-economic consequences.

• Possess the ability to critically assess and interpret interacting biotic and abiotic factors that drive ecosystem development, and how to apply is to achieve the ecological restoration of degraded ecosystems.