AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCAB4

Module Title

Animal Biology

Module Leader

Donna Green

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 4

Module Credits

30 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

300 hours

Contact Hours

64 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester

Year

Scheduled teaching – 54 hours

Practical – 10 hours

Module Content

Animal Biology will introduce students to a number of themes and concepts that will be of use to them throughout their programme. The module will cover cell structures, organ structures, organ functions, and system functions from a number of animals such as cats, dogs and exotic birds. Students will be required to learn and reproduce this information in the form of an end-of-module written examination.

Students will learn about the basic chemical structures and functions of common biological components (including amino acids, proteins, enzymes, lipids, nucleic acids), cell structure and functions of cell organelles, specialised cell types, structure and function of cell and tissues including skin, hair and associated glands, and the correct positioning and composition of the main veins found in small animals.

The structure of various bodily systems will be discussed in the context of their functions and importance, including: the lymphatic system; the cardiovascular system (including characteristics and functions of blood vessels, composition and functions of blood, transport of materials around the body, identification of associated disease of the circulatory system); the respiratory system (including movement of respiratory gases in, out and around the body, identification of associated disease of the respiratory system); the urinary system (including its role in regulating body fluids, and identification of associated disease of the urinary system); the digestive system (including each organ, action of digestive secretions and processes on dietary constituents, properties and functions of macronutrients, micronutrients, and dietary sources for a range of species); the nervous system (including sense organs, initiation and transmission of nerve impulses and conduction across the synapse, co-ordination of the body in terms of sensory, integrative and motor functions of the nervous system); and the endocrine system (including homeostatic regulation of glucose levels and body temperature).

Central to animal biology is an understanding of the characteristics of body structure of a range of invertebrates and vertebrates. To this end, students will learn about anatomical segmentation and body cavity boundaries, common anatomical planes, directions and terminology, and the structure and function of bones and vertebrates skeletal systems (including detailed knowledge and anatomical landmarks of the skull, spine and thoracic skeleton, characteristics of joints and movement, tendons and ligaments and structure of muscle and process of muscle contraction), with a particular focus on cats, dogs and exotics. Students will also examine the structure of the mammalian reproductive systems, hormonal control of reproduction, the process of fertilisation and development of foetus, and of parturition and lactation.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Describe the chemical structure and function of biological macromolecules and their influence on the structure and function of cells and tissues.
2. Explain the structure and function of transport systems, to include circulatory, lymphatic, hepatic and systemic systems.
3. Explain how animals obtain materials for respiration and excretion of waste.
4. Describe the structure and function of organs associated with the digestive tract and their roles in the digestive processes, to include, mono-gastric, ruminant, carnivore and herbivore; and nutrients and dietary requirements for a range of species.
5. Evaluate the structure and function of the support and movement of animal bodies.
6. Explain the male and female reproductive systems, hormonal control, and process of fertilisation, embryo development, parturition and lactation, to include, mammal, bird and fish.
7. Explain the roles of the nervous and endocrine systems in regulation and coordination of the animal body.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Examination

4 x 1-hour closed-book examinations (Learning Outcomes 1-7)

25% per examination

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Examination

4 x 1-hour closed-book examinations (Learning Outcomes 1-7)

25% per examination

Key learning resources

Aspinall, V. and Capello, M., 2015. Introduction to veterinary anatomy and physiology. 3^rd ed. London: Elsevier.

Colville, T. P. and Bassert, J. M., 2015. Clinical anatomy and physiology for veterinary technicians. 3^rd ed. London: Elsevier.

Reece, W. O., 2017. Functional anatomy and physiology of domestic animals. 5^th ed. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

Sadava, D., Hillis, D. M., Heller, H. C. and Berenbaum, M., 2016. Life: the science of biology. 11^th ed. New York, NY: WH Freeman.

Tortora, G. J. and Derrickson, B. H., 2014. Principles of anatomy and physiology. 14^th ed. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

Interactive sites:

thelifewire.com.

‘Vetlogic’ interactive software titles

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCBM4

Module Title

Introduction to Business Management

Module Leader

Hannah Davis

Division which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Equine Science and Coaching (Core)

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

4

Module Credits

15

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

35

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

1

Lectures – 28 hours

Contextualised seminars – 7 hours

Module Content

An understanding of business and management is important for any graduate entering the workforce, whether as an employee or becoming self-employed. This introduction to the world of business and management covers a wide range of contemporary topics. A wide variety of case studies are used to enhance your learning through application to real-world situations, and contextualised seminars provide an opportunity for you to relate your learning to your subject area.

You will learn what a business is and what distinguishes it from other types of organisations in the public and voluntary sector. You will gain a first insight into a business’s external environment and its main business functions, as well as into the nature of organisational structures, cultures and values.

You will be provided with an accessible introduction to financial information for business where you will learn how to read and interpret the main financial statements produced in a business, a crucial skill for any graduate.

Finally, you will go on to explore the importance of marketing in a business and how a marketing plan is put together.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Investigate the principles and standards used to produce accounting and financial information.
2. Evaluate PESTLE analysis and its impact on a business model.
3. Analyse various marketing concepts and create a marketing plan.
4. Analyse and evaluate the management of internal and external workplace communications.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework

Case study report (2,500 words)

100%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework

Case study report (Economics) (2,500 words)

100%

Key learning resources

Mullins, L. and Christy, G., 2016. Management and organisational behaviour. 11th ed. Harlow: Pearson.

Lipsey, R. and Chrystal, K., 2015. Economics. 13th ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Palmer, A. and Hartley, B., 2011. The business environment. 7th ed. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill Education.

Journals

• Financial Times
• Harvard Business Review

AQSC Approval date: 14 August 2018 

Module Code

PCSR4

Module Title

Study and Research Skills

Module Leader

Andrew Atkinson

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Wine Production (Core)

BSc (Hons) Viticulture and Oenology (Core)

BA (Hons) International Wine Business (Core)

FdA Wine Business (Core)

FdSc Equine Science and Coaching (Core)

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

4

Module Credits

15

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time (Hours)

150

Contact Hours
 

45

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

Year

Scheduled teaching – 40 hours

Module Content

This module is designed to support students in the development of the study and research skills they will need to successfully complete their degree.

The module covers a number of key study skills including referencing, academic writing, presenting, and essential mathematical operations relevant to the student’s field of study.

The module also equips the student with an understanding of the concept of research and the reasons for undertaking research relevant to their area of study. The different stages of the research process are investigated and different types of research design discussed. Quantitative data analysis and inferential statistics are introduced.

Literature and communication:

• Types of academic sources
• Use of electronic search engines
• Referencing
• Communication skills; writing and presenting

Research methods:

• Approaches to research
• Developing a research question and hypothesis
• Collecting data; design of experiments, sampling and survey design
• Introduction into qualitative methods

Mathematical operations, data analysis and statistics:

• A range of key mathematical operations relevant to students’ programme of study
• Use of Microsoft Excel to record, manipulate and analyse data

• Descriptive statistics; graphical summaries, measures of central tendency and dispersion
• Introduction to inferential statistics; t-tests, chi-squared test

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Identify academic sources to support research and enquiry within their field of study and correctly reference.
2. Design and document an appropriate method for collecting data to test a hypothesis / answer a research question.
3. Perform mathematical operations and manipulations that are essential for their field of study.
4. Analyse data, interpret the results and accurately communicate their findings.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework

Portfolio of exercises (LO1-4)

100%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework

Portfolio of exercises (LO1-4)

100%

Key learning resources

Anglia Ruskin University, 2017. Guide to the Harvard system of referencing. [online]. Available at:<https://libweb.anglia.ac.uk/referencing/harvard.htm.> [Accessed: 19^th March 2018].

Braun, V. and Clarke, V., 2013. Successful qualitative research: a practical guide for beginners. London: Sage.

CETL-AURS, 2012. Engage in research. [online] Available at:< http://www.engageinresearch.ac.uk/>. [Accessed: 19^th March 2018].

Dytham, C., 2010. Choosing and using statistics: a biologist’s guide. 3^rd ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell Science.

Gustavii, B., 2017. How to write and illustrate a scientific paper. 3rd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Rowntree, D., 2000. Statistics without tears: an introduction for non-mathematicians. London: Penguin Books.

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCMAC4

Module Title

Management of Animal Collections

Module Leader

Shonna McMillan

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 4

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours

40 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester

Year

Scheduled teaching – 18 hours

Practicals – 16 hours

Visits – 6 hours

Module Content

This core module will be taught through a variety of methods (scheduled teaching hours, practical sessions and visits), and will enable students to establish a knowledge of the environment, exercise and enrichment needs of a number of animal species. It will allow students to attain supervisory skills and involve themselves in the management of an animal collection, taking into account staffing and budget management.  Students will be required to present their findings from this module to members of the public, in the form of an assessed presentation.

In this module students will learn methods of handling, restraint, transporting and management of a variety of species, undertake and follow risk assessment in the workplace and evaluate their effectiveness with current legislation, discuss different species-specific methods to maintain their environment, exercise and enrichment needs, undertake responsibility for supervising workers in an animal collection (including managing budgets, advertisement and stock management), and undertake a presentation to members of the public.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Safely handle, restrain, transport and manage a variety of species within animal collections.
2. Undertake risk assessments within an animal collection and evaluate their effectiveness in line with current legislation.
3. Evaluate the importance of maintaining the environmental, exercise and enrichment needs for a variety of species within a selection of animal collections.
4. Demonstrate the ability to manage staff, budgets, advertisement and stock management.
5. Demonstrate an ability to interact with the public during the College Open Day and evaluate own performance.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,000 words

(Learning Outcomes 2, 3 and 4)

50%

Examination

Practical

Presentation at College Open Day (Learning Outcome 5)

Practical assessment

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 4)

30%

20%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,000 words

(Learning Outcomes 2, 3 and 4)

50%

Examination

Practical

Presentation

(Learning Outcome 5)

Practical assessment

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 4)

30%

20%

Key learning resources

Meredith, A. and Delaney, C. J., 2010. Manual of exotic pets. 5^th ed. Gloucester: BSAVA.

Ekarius, C., 2004. How to build animal housing. North Adams, MA: Storey Books.

Hosey, G., Melfi, V. and Pankhurst, S., 2013. Zoo animals: behaviour, management and welfare. 2^nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Judah, V. and Nuttall, K., 2016. Exotic animal care and management. 2^nd ed. Boston: Cengage Learning.

Rosenthal, K., Forbes, N., Frye, F. L. and Lewbart, G. A., 2008. Rapid review of small exotic animal medicine and husbandry. New Jersey: CRC Press.

Sinek, S., 2017. Leaders eat last: why some teams pull together and others don’t. Portfolio Penguin: London.

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCHW4

Module Title

Health and Welfare

Module Leader

Donna Green

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 4

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

30 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

One

Scheduled teaching –  26 hours

Visits – 4 hours

Module Content

Health and Welfare focuses on ensuring that students can recognise signs of health and ill heath in a number of animal species, whilst also covering possible treatment methods, such as the use of antibiotics and vaccination. Students will learn about current animal welfare legislations and what it means for a number of different roles and species within the animal management industry. Upon completion of the module students will feel comfortable discussing various causes of disease amongst animals, and will be able to suggest suitable methods of treatment, control and prevention.

Students will evaluate the factors that contribute to good husbandry practice and techniques available for monitoring the health of livestock. In the context of monitoring animal health, students will learn to recognise signs of health and ill health in a range of animal species, principles and practices of safe animal transport and related documentation, infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses and fungi, and routes of disease transmission and measures undertaken to prevent disease transmission (including quarantine, isolation, hygiene, the use of antibiotics, antibiotic resistance and immunity and vaccination). 

Students will recognise the significance of measuring behaviour in relation to physiological and psychological stress and will evaluate strategies to manage abnormal behaviour. Students will place this knowledge in the context of current animal welfare legislation, including its role in animal management and its effectiveness.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Evaluate the factors for promoting and maintaining animal health.
2. Demonstrate critical knowledge of the various causes of disease and investigate suitable methods of treatment, control and prevention.
3. Evaluate the usefulness of measuring behaviour in relation to physiological and psychological stress.
4. Identify current animal welfare legislation and investigate its effectiveness in the protection of animals.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 3 and 4)

50%

Examination

Closed-book examination – 1 hour

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 3 and 4)

50%

Examination

Closed-book examination – 1 hour

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

50%

Key learning resources

Ackerman, N., 2016. Aspinall’s complete textbook of veterinary nursing. 3^rd ed. London: Elsevier. 

Girling, S., J., 2013. Veterinary nursing of exotic pets. 2^nd ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Hosey, G., Melfi, V. and Pankhurst, S., 2013. Zoo animals: behaviour, management and welfare. 2^nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Judah, V. and Nuttall, K., 2016. Exotic animal care and management. 2^nd ed. Boston: Cengage Learning.

Journals:

·  Animal Welfare

Organisations:

·  Universities Federation for Animal Welfare (UFAW)

Websites:

·  www.legislation.gov.uk

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCPC4

Module Title

Principles of Conservation

Module Leader

Lesley Barcock

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 4

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

30 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

Two

Scheduled teaching – 30 hours

Module Content

This module will enable students to explore the underlying principles of ecology, investigate the various different forms of conservation, and explore the biological relationship between a species and its environment. Upon completion of this module, students will be able to explain the difference between different forms of conservation and how they affect different species. This knowledge will be assessed through a number of programme work projects.

In this module, students will demonstrate understanding of the underlying principles of ecology through investigating different forms of conservation, including breeding programmes, in situ and ex situ conservation, re-introductions, rewilding and micromanagement, and evaluating the biological relationship between an individual organism or an individual species and its environment.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of the underlying principles of ecology that underpin conservation.
2. Evaluate the different forms of conservation and their effectiveness to animal and human populations.
3. Apply conservation principles and concepts to an autecological case study.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 3)

50%

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 3)

100%

Key learning resources

Brodie, J.F., Post, E.S. and Doak, D. F., eds, 2012. Wildlife conservation in a changing climate. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. 

Chapman, J.L. and Reiss, M.J., 1998.  Ecology: principles and applications. 2^nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Hambler, C. and Canney, S. M., 2013. Conservation. 2^nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Mill, L.S., 2012. Conservation of wildlife populations: demography, genetics, and management. 2^nd ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Macdonald, D.W. and Feber, R.E., eds, 2015. Wildlife conservation on farmland: volume 2 conflict in the countryside. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Journals:

·  Biological Conservation

·  Journal of Applied Ecology

·  Forest Ecology and Management Journal

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCABC4

Module Title

Animal Behaviour and Communication

Module Leader

Lesley Barcock

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 4

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours

30 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester

One

Scheduled teaching – 30 hours

Module Content

Animal Behaviour and Communication is a core module at Level 4, which enables students to investigate the principles of animal communication, and the importance of species-specific communication. In order to do so students will review the historical basis of animal behaviour studies and how these are applied in the modern day, before focusing more specifically, on how different means of communication enable species to adapt to their own environment.

Students will explore the historical basis for the study of animal behaviour and theories regarding animal learning and development, and the current application of animal behaviour studies to practical animal management.

In order to understand this historical context and current applications, students will learn about the principles underpinning classical and operant conditioning, habituation, sensitivity, insight and cognition, as well as species-specific communication and its development (including modalities of communication and the honesty and reliability of signalling).

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1.  Evaluate the scientific and historical basis of animal behaviour studies and their current application.

2.  Display a critical understanding of the principles underlying learning, including imprinting and sensitive periods.

3.  Analyse the role of different forms of communication that enable species to adapt to their needs and environment.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

A1 Poster presentation

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 3)

50%

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

A1 Poster presentation

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 3)

50%

50%

Key learning resources:

Alcock, J., 2013. Animal behaviour: an evolutionary approach. 10^th ed. Cary, NC: Sinauer.

Drickamer, L., Vessey, S. and Jakob, E., 2001. Animal behaviour:  mechanisms, ecology and evolution. 5^th ed. Maidenhead: McGraw-Hill.

McFarland, D., 1999. Animal behaviour: psychobiology, ethology and evolution. 3^rd ed. Harlow: Pearson.

Manning, P. and Dawkins, A., 2012. Introduction to animal behaviour. 6^th ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Martin, B. and Bateson, P., 2007. Measuring behaviour: an introductory guide. 3^rd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Searcy, W.A. and Nowicki, S., 2005. The evolution of communication: reliability and deception in signalling systems. Princeton: Princeton University Press.

Slater, P.J.B., 2010. Essentials of animal behaviour. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Stegmann, U.E. ed., 2013. Animal communication theory: information and influence. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Journals:

·  Journal of Animal Behaviour

·  Journal of Zoology

·  Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition

·  Nature

·  New Scientist

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCWP5

Module Title

Work Placement

Module Leader

Paul Harley

Division which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdA Wine Business (Core)

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

FdSc Equine Science and Coaching (Core)

FdSc Wine Production (Core)

Module Level

Level 5

Module Credits

30 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

300 hours

Contact Hours

10

Work based learning 

150 hours

Semester
 

Year

Scheduled teaching – 10 hours, consisting:

-  Launch lectures

-  Group and individual support tutorials

Module Content

Students will take part in a work placement relevant to their field of study, comprising 150 hours of work-based learning. This will be an invaluable opportunity to learn more about their area of interest, whilst establishing industry contacts in a professional environment. Upon completion of the placement students will be required to compile a report, evaluating the knowledge and skills developed therein.

Students will select and organise a work placement or employer-led project, including meeting health and safety requirements, in a relevant sector, and will be required to complete the work placement or employer-led project. In doing so, students will develop both subject-specific skills and work-related skills such as numeracy, communication, interpersonal/teamwork, self-management and skills necessary for self-managed and lifelong learning.

After completion of the work placement or employer-led project, students will identify incidences that occurred during the work placement that were significant relevant to the subject area and evaluate their importance. Finally, students will complete and submit a report that evidences the learning outcomes.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Appraise, and justify the selection of, their workplace provider.
2. Analyse how the knowledge and skills gained in their studies have impacted upon their work placement.
3. Evaluate the knowledge and skills developed whilst on work placement.
4. Identify and evaluate a critical incident relevant to the area of study that occurred during the work placement.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework A

Placement report (LO1-LO3)

70%

Presentation (LO4)

30%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework A

Placement report (LO1-LO4)

100%

Key learning resources

Fanthome, C., 2004. Work placements: a survival guide for students. Basingstoke: Palgrave McMillan.

McCabe, M., 2014. How to get an internship or work placement. North Charleston, SC: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.

Herbert, I. and Rothwell, A., 2004. Managing your placement: a skills-based approach. Basingstoke: Palgrave McMillan.

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCIE5

Module Title

Independent Enquiry

Module Leader

Andrew Atkinson

Division which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdA Wine Business (core)

FdSc Wine Production (elective)

FdSc Equine Science and Coaching (core)

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour & Conservation (core)

Module Level

5

Module Credits

15

Pre-Requisites

Study and Research Skills (L4) or equivalent

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours

2 hours group tutorial

1 hour supervision

Work based learning

None

Semester

Year

Contact hours = 3 x 20 minute project supervision tutorials.

Module Content

The Independent Enquiry module enables students to explore and research a topic of interest, relevant to their field of study. The enquiry will require the demonstration of skills acquired throughout the students’ studies, such as data collection, critical analysis and communication skills.

With the support of a supervisor, the student must agree an appropriate project title that will allow for an in-depth investigation relevant to their field of study, carry out a literature review of the subject area chosen, plan and perform an investigation, deliver a work-in-progress presentation (formative), and finally present the results in a report form (summative).

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Present their work in progress findings, demonstrating an ability to plan their time effectively.
2. Evaluate appropriate research and literature relating to their research aims.
3. Use a range of established techniques to initiate and undertake critical analysis of information.
4. Effectively communicate the findings of their independent enquiry.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework A

Final project (3,000 words)

100%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework A

Final project (3,000 words)

100%

Key learning resources

Leedy, P.D. and Ormond, J. E., 2015. Practical research: planning and Design. 11th ed. Harlow: Pearson.

Ridley, D., 2012. The literature review: a step-by-step guide for students. 2nd ed. London: Sage.

Walliman, N., 2011. Your research project: designing and planning your work. 3^rd ed. London: Sage.

Wisker, G., 2009. The undergraduate research handbook. Basingstoke: Palgrave Macmillan.

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCRMS5

Module Title

Research Methods and Statistics

Module Leader

Andrew Atkinson

Division which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Wine Production (Core)

BSc (Hons) Viticulture and Oenology (Core)

BA (Hons) International Wine Business (Core)

FdA Wine Business (Elective)

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Elective)

Module Level

5

Module Credits

15

Pre-Requisites

Study and Research Skills

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

60

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

Year

Scheduled teaching – 60 hours:

·  Teaching to run through to Easter in Semester 2.

·  Input around research proposal elements (e.g. identifying a topic and experimental design) supported by sessions run within individual programmes.

Module Content

The Research Methods and Statistics module builds upon content covered in the Level 4 Study and Research Skills module.

The module provides the skills required to critically evaluate research and to statistically analyse and interpret data.

The module has a strong applied and practical focus; the statistical methods are introduced through hands-on sessions using a statistical software package and one of the assessments leads to the design of a Level 6 research project proposal.

Students will learn about several aspects of research methods (including sources of information for research and their evaluation, communication in research publications, experimental design, data collection and analysis, evaluate the importance of research), statistics (including collecting data, exploring and summarising data, statistical analysis of data, inferential statistics and multivariate techniques, and communicating statistical results), and project design (including the identification of viable research problems and the selection of appropriate research strategies, writing a project proposal and plan, and ethical and health and safety considerations in research).

Learning Outcomes 

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Identify a topic of investigation within your field of study and conduct a systematic literature review.
2. Generate a written proposal for an independent investigation, incorporating an appropriate and robust research design.
3. Select, justify and apply appropriate statistical techniques to support quantitative research.
4. Interpret the results of statistical analysis, draw appropriate conclusions, and communicate the results effectively and accurately.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework

a. Research proposal (1,500 words, LO1-2)

b. Portfolio of statistical analysis, (LO3-4)

50%

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Coursework

a. Research proposal (1,500 words, LO1-2)

b. Portfolio of statistical analysis (LO3-4)

50%

50%

Key learning resources

Bryman, A. and Bell, E. 2015. Business Research Methods.

Dytham, C., 2010. Choosing and using statistics: a biologist’s guide. 3^rd ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Fowler, J., Cohen, L. and Jarvis, P., 1998. Practical statistics for field biology. 2^nd ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Markman, R., Markman, P. T. and Waddell, M. L., 2001. 10 steps in writing the research paper. Hauppauge: New York.

McDonald, J. H., 2014. Handbook of biological statistics. [on-line] Available at: <http://www.biostathandbook.com> [Accessed 16^th September 2016].

Petrie, A. and Watson, P., 2013. Statistics for veterinary and animal science. 3^rd ed. Oxford: Blackwell Publishing.

Ridley, D., 2012. The literature review: a step-by-step guide for students. 2nd ed. London: Sage.

Ruxton, G. F. and Colegrove, N., 2016. Experiment design for the life sciences. 4^th ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Walliman, N., 2011. Your research project: designing and planning your work. 3^rd ed. London: Sage.

Welham, S.J., Gezan, S.A., Clark, S.J. and Mead, A., 2014. Statistical methods in biology: Design and analysis of experiments and regression. Boca Raton: CRC Press.

Plus GenStat Teaching & Learning on-line help and guides, accessible from within the software and online.

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCASM5

Module Title

Applied Sampling Methods in Conservation

Module Leader

Lesley Barcock/ James Clapham

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 5

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

30 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

One

Scheduled teaching – 10 hours

Practicals – 20 hours

Module Content

This module will provide students with a grounding of knowledge in the use of laboratory skills to effectively report findings from field studies. Students will be expected to adhere to Health and Safety regulations as they complete a set of four, equally assessed laboratory reports throughout the programme of the module.

Students will demonstrate the ability to collect and analyse a range of samples in the field using safe practice and underpinning knowledge, a range of laboratory skills adhering to Health and Safety, and the ability to effectively report findings from field studies and laboratory analysis.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Develop skills in field sample collection and analysis.
2. Develop skills in a range of key laboratory techniques commonly used in the biochemical analysis of animal samples.
3. Effectively report and evaluate findings from field and laboratory analysis, applying underpinning knowledge and understanding.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Laboratory report – 1,500 words

Laboratory report – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1-3)

50%

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Laboratory report – 1,500 words

Laboratory report – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1-3)

50%

50%

Key learning resources:

Berg, J. M., Tymoczko, J.L., Gatto, G. J. and Stryer, L., 2015. Biochemistry. 8^th ed. New York, NY: Freeman and Company.

Chapman, J.L. and Reiss, M.J., 1998.  Ecology: principles and applications. 2^nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Jones, A., Reed, R. and Weyers, J., 2016. Practical skills in biology. 6^th ed. Harlow: Pearson.

Henderson, P.A., 2010. Practical methods in ecology. Oxford: Blackwell.

Reed, R., Holmes, D., Weyers, J. and Jones, A., 2016. Practical skills in biomolecular science. 5^th ed. Harlow: Pearson.

Wheater, C.P., Bell, J. R. and Cook, P. A., 2011. Practical field ecology: a project guide. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Wilson, K. and Walker, J., 2010. Principles and techniques of biochemistry and molecular biology. 7^th ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCABM5

Module Title

Applied Animal Behaviour Management

Module Leader

Donna Green

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 5

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours

 
30 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

Two

Scheduled teaching – 26 hours

Practicals – 4 hours

Module Content

This module will provide students with the opportunity to apply and develop the knowledge and skills acquired in Animal Behaviour and Communication.  Students will employ these skills in assessing behaviour and welfare as well as the management of behavioural problems in specific case study scenarios.

In this module, students will apply their knowledge of animal behaviour and communication to understand behavioural indicators of animal welfare, including behavioural observation and comparison, choice and preference testing, behavioural priorities, and quantifying importance for animals. Students will evaluate the use of classical and operant conditioning within behaviour modification, and the differing attitudes and perceptions of human-animal interactions.

By applying their understanding of learning theory, animal welfare, and human-animal interactions, students will examine the possible causes and symptoms of a variety of common behaviour problems and appropriate strategies in modifying them, possible medical causes of abnormal behaviours, case studies of common problems, and discuss on the variety of options available for appropriate management.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the use of learning processes in behaviour modification.
2. Assess and interpret behavioural indicators of animal welfare.
3. Apply suitable solutions to animal behaviour problems.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written essay – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 2 and 3)

50%

Examination

Closed-book exam – 1 hour

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written essay – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 2 and 3)

50%

Examination

Closed-book exam – 1 hour

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 2)

50%

Key learning resources:

Carlson, N. R. and Birkett, M. A., 2016. Physiology of behaviour. 12^th ed. Harlow: Pearson.

Domjan, M., 2014. The principles of learning and behavior. 7^th ed. London: Wadsworth.

Goodenough, J. E., Mcguire, B. and Jakob, E., 2010. Perspectives on animal behaviour. 3^rd ed. Hoboken, NJ: Wiley.

Horwitz, D. and Mills, D. S., 2010. BSAVA manual of canine and feline behavioural medicine. 2^nd ed. Gloucester: BSAVA.

Jensen, P., 2017. The ethology of domestic animals: an introductory text. 2^nd ed. Wallingford: CABI.

Martin, G. L. and Pear, J., 2016. Behaviour modification: what it is and how to do it. 10^th ed. Abingdon: Routledge.

Robinson, I., ed., 1995. The Waltham book of human-animal interactions: benefits and responsibilities of pet ownership. Oxford: Pergamon Press.

Journals:

·  Applied Animal Behaviour Science

·  The Behavioural and Brain Sciences

·  Animal Behaviour

·  Physiology and Behaviour

·  Animal Welfare

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCWE5

Module Title

Welfare and Ethics

Module Leader

Jenny Watkins

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Core)

Module Level

Level 5

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

30 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

One

Scheduled teaching – 30 hours

Module Content

With animal welfare and ethics being a prevalent topic in modern-day society, this module enables students to investigate the factors affecting human attitudes to animals, how these have changed over time, and how legislature has changed alongside them. Students will be encouraged to look into the past, present and future regarding these ethical debates, in order to evaluate how humankind impacts on animal welfare.

Students will explore various concepts of animal welfare and ethics, factors influencing human perceptions and attitudes to animals, how animals have been used by society through history, the current roles of animals in society, and factors influencing the changing roles of animals. Using their knowledge of animal behaviour, students will review legal and ethical debates regarding the treatment of animals, and investigate the conflict between morality and animal law. Finally, current issues will be discussed in depth, including animals in sport, companion animals, speciesism, wild animals in captivity, sentience, illegal trade, genetics, and research.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Evaluate the changing roles of animals in human society over time.
2. Analyse and describe human perceptions of animals.
3. Analyse and evaluate human impact on current issues concerning animal welfare.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 3,000 words

(Learning Outcomes 1-3)

100%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 3,000 words

(Learning Outcomes 1-3)

100%

Key learning resources

Appleby, M., 1999. What should we do about animal welfare? Oxford: Blackwell Science.

Appleby, M. C., Olsson, A. S. and Galindo, F., 2018. Animal welfare, 3^rd ed. Wallingford: CABI.

Armstrong, S. J. and Botzler, R. G., eds, 2017. The animal ethics reader. 3^rd ed. Abingdon: Routledge.

Bostock, S. T. C., 2004. Zoos and animal rights: the ethics of keeping animals. Abingdon: Routledge.

Dawkins, M., 2013. Animal suffering: the science of animal welfare. London: Springer.

Garner, R., 2004. Animals, politics and morality, 2^nd ed. Manchester: Manchester University Press.

Radford, M., 2001. Animal welfare law in Britain: regulation and responsibility. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Serpell, J., 1996. In the company of animals: a history of human-animal relationships. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Journals:

·  Animal Welfare

Animal Welfare Organisations:

·  Universities Federation for Animal Welfare

·  RSPCA

·  British Union for Abolition of Vivisection

·  Farm Animal Welfare Council

·  Captive Animal Protection Society

·  Countryside Alliance

·  League Against Cruel Sports

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCALT5

Module Title

Animal Learning and Training

Module Leader

Donna Green

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Elective)

Module Level

Level 5

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

32 hrs

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

One

Scheduled teaching – 10 hours

Practical – 18 hours

Visits – 4 hours

Module Content

In this elective module students are introduced to a variety of learning and training techniques used with animals on a daily basis – techniques such as operant conditioning and clicker training. Students will be required to evaluate these different techniques, and apply some of their choosing in the training of different species.

Students will investigate learning theory (including operant conditioning, classical conditioning, habituation and sensitisation) and training methods (including clicker training, different reinforcement schedules such as continuous, fixed ratio and variable ratio), and will evaluate the importance of motivation, stimulus control and jackpots in the context of animal training.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Evaluate different learning theories in relation to animal training.
2. Apply learning theories in the training of different species.
3. Evaluate the use of different reinforcement schedules in the training of different species and the importance of motivation and stimulus control.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

2 x videos – 5 minutes each

(Learning Outcome 2)

Written report – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 3)

50%

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

2 x videos – 5 minutes each

(Learning Outcome 2)

Written report – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 3)

50%

50%

Key learning resources

Domjan, M., 2014. The principles of learning and behavior. 7^th ed. London: Wadsworth.

Lindsay, S. R., 2000. Handbook of applied dog behaviour and training: volume 1 principles of behavioural adaptation and learning. Ames, IA: Iowa State Press.

Lindsay, S. R., 2001. Handbook of applied dog behaviour and training: volume 2 etiology and assessment of behaviour problems. Ames, IA: Iowa State Press.

Lindsay, S. R., 2005. Handbook of applied dog behaviour and training: volume 3 procedures and protocols. Oxford: Blackwell.

Reid, P., 1996. Excel-erated learning: explaining how dogs learn and how best to teach them. Harpenden: James and Kenneth.

Pryor, K., 2010. Reaching the animal mind: clicker training and what it teaches us about all animals. New York, NY: Scribner Book Company.

Journals:

·  Applied Animal Behaviour Science

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCWC5

Module Title

Wildlife Conservation

Module Leader

Jenny Watkins

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Elective)

Module Level

Level 5

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

50 hours

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

Two

Scheduled teaching – 25 hours

Practical – 25 hours

Visits – This module will include onsite visits to conservation sites either abroad or within the United Kingdom.

Module Content

This fantastic module offers students the opportunity to implement a range of ecological field techniques acquired during their studies, during a 12-day onsite field visit to a wildlife reserve. As a result, students will gain a wealth of practical experience in the fields of land management and environmental assessment, compiling a field report as they go. Students will also be required to write a project about the work achieved throughout this module. Based on estimated costs of factors such as accommodation, board, travel, equipment, and other associated costs, the international wildlife reserve visit is expected to cost approximately £1,600, while the UK-based visit is expected to cost approximately £400, although these are subject to change. Attendance on one of these two options is mandatory for course completion, as assessments are based on field work conducted.

The module will provide training in a range of ecological census, monitoring and evaluation techniques, and in designing and collecting field data. Students will experience and learn about the ecology of a specific ecosystem while also gaining practical experience and further knowledge of applied ecological issues such as land management, environmental assessment and conservation of rare species. Through the field work component of this module, students will develop team work, communication, and presentation skills.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Demonstrate the ability to use and analyse a range of ecological field techniques.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the ecology and management of a specific ecosystem.
3. Evaluate conservation and management strategies of rare species.
4. Plan, design and undertake an individual ecological field investigation.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

30-minute closed-book exam

(Learning Outcomes 3)

Field assessments – 2,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1, 2 and 4)

30%

70%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

30-minute closed-book exam

(Learning Outcomes 1-3)

Field assessments – 2,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1-4)

30%

70%

Key learning resources

Begon, M., Townsend, C. R. and Harper, J. L., 2006. Ecology: from individuals to ecosystems. 4^th ed. Oxford: Blackwell.

Fowler, J, Cohen, L. and Jarvis, P., 1998. Practical statistics for field biology. 2nd ed. Chichester: Wiley.

Hambler, C. and Canney, S. M., 2013. Conservation. 2^nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

Despard Estes, R., 2012. The behaviour guide to African mammals: including hoofed mammals, carnivores, primates. 2^nd ed. Berkley, CA: University of California Press.

Goudie, A., 2013. The human impact on the natural environment: past present and future. 7^th ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Gutteridge, L., 2011. The Bushveld: a South African field guide. 2^nd ed. Pinetown: 30 Degrees South.

Stuart, C. and Stuart, T., 2015. Stuarts’ field guide to mammals of Southern Africa. 5^th ed. Cape Town: Struik Publishers.

AQSC Approval date: 24 August 2018 

Module Code

PCBE5

Module Title

Behavioural Ecology

Module Leader

Lesley Barcock

Centre which owns module

Plumpton College

Programme(s) to which module belongs

FdSc Applied Animal Behaviour and Conservation (Elective)

Module Level

Level 5

Module Credits

15 credits

Pre-Requisites

None

Minimum Study Time

150 hours

Contact Hours
 

30 hrs

Work based learning

None

Semester
 

Two

Scheduled teaching – 30 hours

Module Content

This module will enable students to study the themes of natural selection and adaptation in behavioural ecology. There will also be a focus on how theories about evolution have changed over time. By the end of the module students will be expected to demonstrate their knowledge on these topics through the combination of a written assignment and a poster.

The module will cover the role of natural selection in behavioural ecology, comparative approaches to the experimental study of behavioural ecology, and investigative studies of adaptation and their practical application. Students will examine the role of male and female availability in sexual selection, theories surrounding the evolution of elaborate ornaments, varieties of sexual conflict amongst animals and alternative breeding strategies. In order to understand the applications of sexual selection theory, students will learn about mating systems in a range of animals, theories surrounding constraints on parental care and caregiver choice, and variation in parental care and investment. Finally, students will investigate kin selection in a range of animals, the evolution of altruistic behaviour displayed by non-related animals, and methods of cooperation and helping in a range of animals.

Learning Outcomes

To achieve credit for this module, students must be able to:

1. Compare past and current theories of behavioural ecology and assess their practical application.
2. Evaluate the theory of evolution of sexual selection and compare with alternative breeding strategies.
3. Communicate the principles of different mating systems and methods of parental care in animals.
4. Demonstrate a critical understanding and evaluate the theories concerning altruism and cooperation amongst animals.
5. Explain the different cycles and rhythms and their significance.

First Sit

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 4)

A1 poster presentation

(Learning Outcomes 2 and 3)

50%

50%

Referral (capped at 40%)

Assessment

Weighting

Programme work

Written assignment – 1,500 words

(Learning Outcomes 1 and 4)

A1 poster presentation

(Learning Outcomes 2 and 3)

50%

50%

Key learning resources

Davies, N., Krebs, J. and West, S. A., 2012.  An introduction to behavioural ecology. 4^th ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

Danchin, E., Giraldeau, L. and Cezilly, F., eds, 2008. Behavioural ecology. Oxford: Oxford University Press.

Krebs, J. R., 1997. Behavioural ecology: an evolutionary approach. 4^th ed. Chichester: Wiley-Blackwell.

McFarland, D., 1999. Animal behaviour: psychobiology, ethology and evolution. 3^rd ed. Harlow: Longman.

Lendrem, D., 1986. Modelling in behavioural ecology: an introductory text. Beckenham: Croom Helm.

Westneat, D. F. and Fox, C. W., eds, 2010. Evolutionary behavioural ecology.  University Press.

Journals:

·  Behavioural Ecology

·  Animal Behaviour

·  BBC Wildlife

·  Nature

·  New Scientist

Websites:

www.users.ox.ac.uk/~kgroup  (Behavioural Ecology Research Group)