handbook of modules · the examinations in module 1 (basic course biodiversity) and in the two...

Handbook of Modules for the Master of Science in Biodiversity

Ruhr-University Bochum University Duisburg-Essen

Academic year 2014/2015

(as of 17.12.2014)

Table of Contents

1. General ............................................................................................................... S.3

1.1 The Master degree course Biodiversität/Biodiversity ....................................... S.3

1.2 Objectives matrix for the degree course ............................................................ S. 4

1.3 Study contents, -course, -organisation ............................................................... S.5

1.4 The ECTS-System .................................................................................................. S.5

1.5 Workload ................................................................................................................. S.6

1.6 Modules ................................................................................................................... S.6

1.7 Examinations for the awarding of credit points ................................................. S.6

1.8 Module grades ........................................................................................................ S.7

2. Study plan ......................................................................................................... S.8

2.1 Study plan .............................................................................................................. S. 8

2.2 Elective course area .............................................................................................. S.9

2.3 Internship – Practice semester ............................................................................ S.9

3. Module descriptions ................................................................................ S.10

1. Introduction

This handbook of modules describes the modules and courses of the degree course

Master of Science in Biodiversity. The degree course is located at the University

Alliance Metropole Ruhr (Universitätsallianz Metropole Ruhr (UAR)) and is jointly

carried by the Ruhr-University Bochum and the University of Duisburg-Essen. The

handbook of modules serves the students and teachers of the degree course

Biodiversity as orientation for the offered courses and the expenditure in the degree

course. Type and extent of the examinations can change and are made public -

according to the examination regulations - every semester. The examination regulations

are binding.

1.1 The M.Sc. degree course Biodiversität/Biodiversity

The Ruhr-University Bochum (RUB) and the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) offer a

specialised and distinguished degree course with the jointly carried degree course

Master of Science in Biodiversity. The available expertise at the RUB and the UDE offers

the students an excellent base for a practise-oriented education close to research.

Through the inclusion of numerous chairs of thematically complementary-oriented

faculties of both locations, an interdisciplinary and internationally-oriented degree

course, which represents biodiversity in its complete thematic wideness, has been

formed.

The study in the research-oriented Master degree course Biodiversity is supposed to

impart the students to the necessary scientific knowledge, skills and competences,

which they need to enter the job market in a specialised area of biology or the third

phase (doctorate) of their academic education.

The research-oriented Master degree course Biodiversity has the aim to enable

students to independently and scientifically work in the area of biodiversity, to critically

assess scientific knowledge and to act responsibly. Key areas in terms of content are

phylogeny, systematics, taxonomy, ecology, functional diversity and diversity of natural

systems. Multidisciplinarity and the extension of key competences are part of the

curriculum.

Graduates of the Master's degree course Biodiversity can understand contributions to

scientific discussions of questions relevant to society can objectively and ethically

evaluate them and can support the individual and societal relevance with reason.

Graduates can independently develop questions, plan, carry out, evaluate and place

research projects in a bio-scientific context and they can present them addressee-

oriented in oral and written form.

Every module of the degree course contributes to achieving the above-mentioned

superior study objectives by persuing subgoals in every module. The following

objectives matrix shall show how this can work:

1.2 Objectives matrix for the Master degree course Biodiversity

Superior study objective Skill objectives in the sense of learning outcomes Target-aimed

modules

Research-oriented

specialisation in the areas of

"Phylogeny, Systematics,

Taxonomy" and "Functional

Diversity and Diversity of

Natural Systems"

Graduates of the Master's degree course Biodiversity:

- possess in-depth knowledge of molecular, organismic and ecosystematic subareas of biology

- have an overview of the current state of research in specific subareas of biodiversity and can critically interpret its results

Modules 1-3

Modules 5-8

(Elective modules)

Ability to systematically

present complex biological

connections and classify into

the context of existing

research results and

questions relevant to society.


- systematically present complex connections between different organisational levels of biodiversity

- place complex connections in the context of existing research results

- can understand contributions to scientific discussions of questions relevant to society, can objectively and ethically evaluate them and can support the individual and societal relevance with reason

- place research results in the historical context and while doing so gain knowledge about principles and mechanisms of biodiversity

- present results addressee-oriented in oral and written form

Modules 1,3,4

Modules 5-8 (Elective modules)

Modules 1,3,4,9,10

Modules 1-8 all

Knowledge and

implementation of modern

methods and state-of-the-art

techniques in field- and

laboratory-work


- know various modern methods and specific work techniques of biodiversity research

- can critically and objectively assess and evaluate the pros and cons of these methods with regard to the question supposed to be answered

- independently apply modern methods and work techniques of biology in laboratory and field-work

Modules 2,5-10

Modules 2,5-10

Modules 5-10

Independent carrying out of

scientific work and

qualification for doctoral

studies or qualification for a

leading position in a

company, a public authority

or a NGO (non-government

organisation)


- independently develop questions and hypotheses

- plan research projects time- and resource-oriented

- independently carry out research projects with appropriate methods and work techniques

- analyse results, critically and objectively interpret outcomes, place results in a scientific and social context

Modules 3,5-10

Modules 3,5-10

Modules 9,10

All modules, but especially 9,10

1.3 Study contents, -course, -organisation

The degree course Master of Science in Biodiversity starts with an overview of methods

and contents of the interdisciplinary topic of biodiversity in the first semester. This

overview sets the basics for the whole study. Modules to impart key competences for

scientific work flank this start of study.

On this base a wide selection of elective course modules is offered to the students in

the second semester, which enables the students to gain deeper knowledge and to set

individual emphases in their studies.

In the third semester the emphasis lies on the practical use of the gained knowledge.

The students are explicitly encouraged to connect this with a stay abroad at a partner

university or at a co-operating research institution.

The fourth semester is reserved for the master project. It consists of a master thesis, in

which a scientific question is independently worked on, and a concluding master

colloquium, in which the thesis is defended in front of an examination board.

1.4 The ECT-System (European Credit Transfer System)

The master programme is organised in modules which enable study-related

examinations. The ECT-system orientation offers German as well as foreign students a

consistent information system and by awarding credit points an easier accreditation of

study achievements at other universities. The study-related examinations are an

important aspect of the ECT-system , which enables the students - besides

unproblematic changes of universities - to examine their own state of knowledge during

their studies.

In contrast to the conventional grading system, which only takes a solely qualitative

grading of the study performance into consideration, a further component is taken into

account in the ECT-system: the quantity. To enable better comparability of study

results which have been achieved at different universities - domestic and abroad - the

ECT-system bases itself not on weekly hours spent in courses per semester

(Semesterwochenstunden (SWS)), which reflect the teaching expenditure, but on the

study expenditure of the students. A year of study in the sense of the ECTS (in full-time

studies) corresponds to 60 credit points. A for this time period assumed complete

workload of 1800 hours (45 weeks à 40 hours) is hidden behind this.

Besides the measurement for the quantity there is the measurement for the quality of

the study achievements, the grades, which can easily be converted into other grading

systems.

1.5 Workload

Not the teaching expenditure (SWS), but the study expenditure is taken into

consideration in the ECT-system. Credit points are assigned to every course, whereby

one credit point stands for a workload of 30 hours. The credit points and thereby the

workload for the courses are preset, the time of presence (course in hours) is preset

through the SWS. In addition, there is the time that students are supposed to use for

preparation and follow-up of the course as well as the preparation for exams.

1.6 Modules

The degree course is subdivided into modules. The individual modules are constructed

as thematically self-contained units. They comprise various numbers of credit points

and are each successfully completed with an examination. Individual modules can

contain multiple sub-examinations, the complete module grade is composed of the

grades - weighted with the credit points - of the sub-examinations (see below).

The contents, the qualification objectives and forms of teaching, the student workload

and the connected awarding of credit points, the types of examination,requirements for

the participation in modules, the respective start of the module and the quantity of the

offer are compiled in the module descriptions.

1.7 Examinations for the awarding of credit points – Quantity

The examinations in the individual courses also serve the purpose of awarding credit

points. An examination does not necessarily have to be a written exam or a colloquium.

Credit points can also be achieved through protocols/scientific reports, presentations

etc. The credit points for a course can only be awarded if the respective examination

was passed. It can be coupled with mandatory attendance at the course. An

examination determines if the workload has successfully been rendered. The credit

points will then be awarded according to the principle of "All or nothing". The traditional

German grade-system is used for grading examinations, it is an absolute evaluation.

The examinations in module 1 (basic course Biodiversity) and in the two specialisation

modules ("Phylogeny, Systematics, Taxonomy" and "Functional Diversity and Diversity

of Natural Systems") will be taken orally. The duration of anoral exam will be 30-45

minutes.

1.8 Module grades and module examinations

After completion, a module grade is awarded for every module. If multiple examinations

are assigned to one module, the grades will be multiplied with the credit points of the

appropriate course, the sum of these products divided by the sum of the credit points

for the whole module will then be the weighted average grade - in this case the module

grade.

Module grade:

∑(𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑒∗𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠)

𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑒

The final grade will be calculated in a similar way. For this purpose all module grades are

multiplied with the number of credit points for the respective module, subsequently the sum of

these products will be divided by 180.

Final grade:

∑(𝑚𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑒 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑒∗𝑐𝑟𝑒𝑑𝑖𝑡 𝑝𝑜𝑖𝑛𝑡𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑎𝑙𝑙 𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑑 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝑠 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑚𝑜𝑑𝑢𝑙𝑒)

180

2. Course of Study

2.1 Study plan for the Master's degree course Biodiversity

1st Semester Type of exam CP

Biodiv-M-1 Basic course Biodiversity Oral exam 10

L Introduction to Phylogeny and Diversity S Introduction to Phylogeny and Diversity L Basics of Evolution and Ecology S Basics of Evolution and Ecology

Biodiv-M-2 Methods of Biodiversity Research Written exam 7

L Methods of Biodiversity Research Ü Methods of Biodiversity Research

Biodiv-M-3 Biodiversity in Research and Practise Term paper & presentation 6

L Lecture Series Biodiversity S Science Slam

Biodiv-M-4 Scientific writing and presentation Poster 7

VL Scientific writing S Scientific writing S Data presentation

2nd Semester

Biodiv-M-5 Basic module „Phylogeny, Systematics, Taxonomy“ 1 Protocol or presentation 9 Lecture and seminar or “Übungen”/pract. courses and oral exam

Biodiv-M-6 Complementary module „Phylogeny, Systematics, Protocol or presentation 6 Taxonomy“ 1 Lecture and seminar or “Übungen”/pract. courses

Biodiv-M-7 Basic module „Functional Diversity and Protocol or presentation 9 Diversity of Natural Systems“ 1 and oral exam Lecture and seminar or “Übungen”/pract. courses

Biodiv-M-8 Complementary module „Functional Diversity and Protocol or presentation 6 Diversity of Natural Systems“ 1 Lecture and seminar or “Übungen”/pract. courses

3rd Semester

Biodiv-M-9 Internship (Theory and Practise of Scientific Protocol 30 Work, Research Internship Abroad)

Internship Internet colloquium

4th Semester

Biodiv-M-10 Master project Master thesis, 30

Master thesis oral exam Master colloquium

1 Modules of the 2nd semester can be chosen from a broad offer (see handbook of modules). In the basic module

students have to pass an extra oral exam.

2.2 Elective course area

Besides the mandatory modules four elective course modules are provided, which

serve as the individualisation of the course of study. The degree course enables a

specialisation within the specialisation modules of "Phylogeny, Systematics,

Taxonomy" and "Functional Diversity und Diversity of Natural Systems". Two modules

have to be selected from every focus topic. One basic module with 9 credit points and

one complementary module with 6 credit points. The student himself or herself can

choose which one he or she wants to take as a basic and which one he or she wants to

take as a complementary module. The difference between a basic and a

complementary module is an extra oral exam, for which there is a study expenditure of

3 credit points and which has to be taken in the basic module. Besides the courses

listed in the handbook of modules courses from other master programmes can be

credited upon application. For this purpose an assignment to the two specialisation

modules "Phylogeny, Systematics, Taxonomy" and "Functional Diversity and Diversity

of Natural Systems" is necessary. Students have to file an application for the

recognition of courses in the elective course area at the board of examiners.

2.3 Internship – Practice semester

The goal of this module is the further development of an independent research profile

of the students, the involvement of stay-abroads and the enabling of practise-oriented

research work. This module offers greatest possible flexibility and students will be

supported during their search for individual internships. In an accompanying internet

colloquium it will be ensured that the students stay in contact with their supervisors

and fellow students at their home universities.

3. Module descriptions

Basic course „Biodiversity“

Obligatory module Module commissioner:

Boenigk

every WS

Module number: Biodiv-M-1 1st Semester

Course CP SWS University Lecturer

Introduction to Phylogeny and Diversity

(L)

2 2 UDE Boenigk

Introduction to Phylogeny and Diversity

(S)

3 2 UDE Boenigk

The Basics Evolution and Ecology (L) 2 2 RUB Begerow

The Basics of Evolution und Ecology (S) 3 2 RUB Begerow

Sum 10 8

Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 180 h Start: 14.10.2014

Number of participants: 24 (S)

Participation requirements: none

Preliminary discussion

(Location, day, time):

Bochum, ND1/58, 14.10.2014, 9.15 AM

Time and location: Tuesday. 9-11 AM, in Bochum; Wednesday. 10 AM - 2 PM in

Essen; Thursday: 2-4 PM in Bochum

Type of exam Oral exam

Study objectives/competences: L: The students have a deepened understanding of structure plans, physiological processes and their interaction of prokaryotes, protists, plants and animals under consideration of relevant processes. Furthermore students can place various organisms in the correct evolutionary and ecological context. S: Students have fundamental knowledge of the organismic subareas of biology and can systematically present their complex connections and place them in the context of existing research results. Course contents: L Boenigk: Selected contents of the B.Sc. study are deepened, with a focus on the comparison of the main groups; adaptation to and interaction with the environment of eubacteria, archaea, protists, plants and animals; phylogeny; physiological adaptations including hormones, signal reception and processing, basics of behaviour; sexual and asexual procreation, alternation of generations. S Boenigk: specific issues of comparative morphology, physiology and phylogeny VL Begerow: Mechanisms of evolution and ecology are presented and deepened. The following aspects form the focus: history of evolution research, molecular evolution, population genetics, speciation, organismic interactions, autecology, synecology. S Begerow: specific issues of evolution biology and ecology Notes: constant presence and active participation (including a presentation) are necessary in the seminars. On request/when required the courses will be held in English. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade.

Methods of Biodiversity Research

Obligatory module Module commissioner:

Begerow

every WS



Methods of Biodiversity Research (Ü) 5 4 RUB Begerow, Eltz, Kirchner,

Krämer, Lampert, Loos,

Netzband, Stützel, Tollrian,

Wöllecke

Methods of Biodiversity Research (L) 2 2 RUB Begerow, Eltz, Kirchner,

Krämer, Lampert, Loos,

Netzband, Stützel, Tollrian,

Wöllecke

Sum 7 6


Number of participants: 24




Bochum, ND1/58, 14.10.2014, 9.15 AM

Time and location: Tuesdays 11AM - 1 PM in Bochum, Thursdays 9 AM -1 PM in

Bochum

Type of exam Written exam

Study objectives/competences: Students know the various methods of evolution research and can apply them to the respective questions. Students have an overview over the diversity of the main groups of organisms. They know the main characteristics and can identify them macroscopically or microscopically and thus perform a correct classification of unknown organisms on a different taxonomic level. Furthermore they can assign the analysed characteristics to ontogenetic, phylogenetic and ecologic processes.

Students get to learn the most important methods of biodiversity research. Especially the various biodiversity indices, population-genetic and phylogenetic methods as well as molecular techniques are taught. Examples for the successful application of individual methods will be presented and discussed in the seminars.

Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars and the “Übungen”/practical courses. On request/when required the courses will be held in English. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade.

Biodiversity in Research and Practice

Mandatory module Module commissioner:

Kirchner

every semester



Lecture series Biodiversity (L) 2 1 RUB Begerow, Kirchner, Stützel,

Tollrian, Vos

Science Slam (S)* 4 1 RUB Begerow, Boenigk

Sum 6 4


Number of participants: No limit




See notice

Time and location: Lecture series: Tuesdays 4.15 PM, ND03/99

Science Slam: End of the 1st semester; see notice

Type of exam Term paper (lecture series)

Presentation (Science Slam)

Study objectives/competences: Students can understand contributions to scientific discussions of questions relevant to society, can objectively and ethically evaluate them and can support the individual and social relevance with reason. They can comprehensibly present the connections and discoveries to a layman audience.

Course contents:

In the lecture series current issues from all areas of biodiversity research are presented in guest lectures (to some extent in English). The respective host lecturers will hand out topics from the surrounding area of the lectures for term papers.

At the Science Slam, students will present scientific issues target group-oriented and in a short and concise form.

Notes: The lecture series appeals to all biology students of all semesters. Term papers will only be given to students of the M.Sc.-degree course Biodiversity. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. A crediting in the degree course M.Sc. Biology (RUB) is possible within the Optionalbereich (Elective courses for BA students). On request/when required the courses will be held in English. *The Science Slam only takes place in the winter semester

Scientific writing and presentation


N.N.

every Wintersemester (WS)

Module number:: Biodiv-M-4 1st Semester


Scientific writing (VL) 2 2 UDE Stefan Heinrich

Scientific writing (S) 3 2 UDE Stefan Heinrich

Data presentation (S) 2 3 UDE Kier

Sum 7 7






See notice

Time and location: Mondays 8-10 AM, in Essen

Type of exam Poster

Study objectives/competences:

Students know the most important types of scientific publications, their functions and structures. They have the skills to write a manuscript for a scientific article in English and can critically evaluate the quality of publications. Data presentation: Students are able to present their own research results in a logical and clear way. They learn the handling of presentation programmes and the handling of a selection of computer software for the visualisation of data. Course contents:

Functions, types and structures of scientific publications: Final papers, articles (magazine, book, conference reports), letter, review, supplementary material, erratum, correction, comment, withdrawal, various data (sequences, structures, etc.), patents. Rights and duties of authors. Open access and traditional publications. The process of scientific writing: Formulation of hypotheses, compilation of data, selection of magazine/medium, selection of technical auxiliaries (software), information for authors, manuscript planning and authoring: Text, illustrations, tables, references, language and style, common mistakes, working in groups. The process of publication: submitting, learning from rejections/remarks, revision, replies to the editor, galley proofs, data keeping, impact factor. The other side – evaluating manuscripts. Ethic deliberations during writing and evaluation.

Data presentation: the basics of data presentation (rhetorical basics, selection of data, presentation styles (presentation, poster)); visualisation regulations and media selection; time management; Powerpoint presentations (authoring a presentation, integration of graphics and animations); Programs for presenting data (presentation of chemical formulas, tables and diagrams; drawing programs; 3D-structure illustration; creating animations and video streams); illustrations (design of images; composite presentations; resolution of vector- and pixel graphics); data download off the internet (copyright; image- and database search); providers of presentation- and teaching material. Notes: Courses will be held in English. In the seminar constant presence is necessary. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade.

Elective course area All modules of the second semester are assigned to the elective course area. The module Biodiversity M-5 (basic module) and the module Biodiversity M-6 (complementary module) can be selected from the focus area "Phylogeny, Systematics and Taxonomy". In this case each module can be a basic or a complementary module. To complete a basic module, an oral exam must be passed in addition to the actual exam. This oral examination has a learning expenditure of 90 hours and is therefore is credited with 3 credit points. The specialisation area "Phylogeny, Systematics and Taxonomy" includes the following elective modules:

o Application of Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) o Diversity of Fungi o Diversity of Plants o Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity of Invertebrates I o Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity of Invertebrates II o Population Genetics and Phylogeny I o Population Genetics and Phylogeny II

For reasons of clarity every module is listed only once, the module number and the achievable credit points are the result of the student's selection of the module as a basic module or as a complementary module.

Applying Next Generation Sequencing

Elective course module Module commissioner:

Boenigk

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-5A/6A Area: Phylogeny,

Systematics, Taxonomy

2nd Semester


Application of Next Generation

Sequencing (L)

3 2 UDE Boenigk

Application of Next Generation

Sequencing (S)

3 2 UDE Boenigk

Sum 6/9 4 9 CP as basic module

6 CP as complementary module

Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 120/210 h Start: 08.04.2015


Participation requirements: Modules Biodiv-MA-1 & Biodiv-Ma-2 passed



See notice

Time and location: Wednesdays 8 AM-12 PM

Type of exam Written exam (L, S)

Study objectives/competences: Lecture: Students have a deepened knowledge of organismic and molecular diversity, especially of (i) morphological diversity of eukaryotes, (ii) diversity and phylogeny of eukaryotes, (iii) methods of phylogenetic analysis and the creation of phylogenetic trees, (iv) molecular diversity markers, (v) barcoding and ampliconsequencing, (vi) DNA and RNA based diversity studies, (vii) various techniques of next generation sequencing.

Seminar: Students have fundamental knowledge of molecular biodiversity of eukaryotes and their phylogenetic analysis. They can present these contents and can evaluate current scientific discussions about this issue in socially critical way. Students can plan, carry out and evaluate molecular and organismic studies.

Key qualification: Ability to retrieve knowledge in the context of the teaching form "lecture"; ability to systematically and goal-oriented develop new subject knowledge in a limited time period; ability to speak and write in an appropriate scientific style; methodical competence; planning and carrying out of samplings, knowledge about EDP-supported processing of data and their presentations in the form of tables, diagrams and texts. Course contents: Diversity and phylogeny of eukaryotes. Creation of phylogenetic trees; morphological diversity of eukaryotes; meaning of interaction of environmental factors with organismic characteristics and molecular diversity. Overview of methods for diversity analyses, especially of molecular approaches for diversity analysis taking into account next generation sequencing techniques. The topic selection is matched with the student's own research focus as well as at aspects of biology and phylogeny of eukaryotes.

Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminar. Presentation in the form of a “Referat”. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Diversity of Fungi


Begerow

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-5B/6B Area: Phylogeny,


2nd Semester


Diversity of Fungi (L) 1 1 RUB Begerow

Diversity of Fungi (S) 1 1 RUB Begerow

Diversity of Fungi (Ü) 4 4 RUB Begerow




to: 05.06.2015


Participation requirements: Modules Biodiv-M-1 & Biodiv-M-2 passed



Bochum, ND1/30, 13.04.2015, 10.00 AM

Time and location: Lecture: ND 03/99, Wedn.- 8.15 – 10.00 AM und Fr., 8.15 –

10.00 AM

Seminar: ND 03/99, Fr., 10.15-12.00h

Pract. training: ND 1/30, Wedn., 10.15 – 18.00h

+ 1-2 Excursions upon consultation

Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (Ü); oral exam (L, S)

Study objectives/competences: Students have gotten an overview of the diversity of fungi. They get to know important features and can macroscopically and microscopically recognise them and correctly classify unknown organisms. Furthermore they understand the analysed development stages of organisms as parts of a develop-ment process in the life cycle (ontogeny) and also as a step in an evolutionary process (phylogeny). The understanding of the observations is deepened through validated drawings (observation protocol). Course contents: The biology of fungi, especially higher fungi and their phytoparasitical representatives. Besides the lifecycles, the procurement and selection of material under the aspects of one's own research are made subjects of discussions. The course is aligned for students who want to get a compact overview of the main parts of fungi. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminar and in the “Übungen”/practical course. Students have to make drawings during the practical courses. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Diversity of Plants


Stützel

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-5C/6C Area: Phylogeny,


2nd Semester


Diversity of Plants (L) 1 1 RUB Stützel

Diversity of Plants (S) 1 1 RUB Stützel

Diversity of Plants (Ü) 4 4 RUB Stützel




to: 17.07.2015





Bochum, ND1/30, 13.04.2015. 10.00 AM

Time and location: Lecture: ND 03/99, Wedn.- 8.15 – 10.00 AM und Fr., 8.15 –

10.00 AM

Seminar: ND 03/99, Fr., 10.15 AM - 12.00 PM

Pract. course: ND 1/30, Wedn., 10.15 AM – 6 PM

+ 1-2 excursion upon consultation


Study objectives/competences: Students have gotten an overview of the diversity of higher plants. They get to know important features and can macroscopically and microscopically recognise and correctly classify unknown organisms. Furthermore they understand the analysed development stages of organisms as parts of a development process in the life cycle (ontogeny) and also as a step in an evolution process (phylogeny). The understanding of the observations is deepened through validated drawings (observation protocol). Course contents: Biology of higher plants. The main focus is set on spermatophyta, for comparative reasons mosses and ferns are included, too. Besides the lifecycles, the procurement and selection of material under the aspects of one's own research are made subjects of discussions. The course is for students who want to get a compact overview of the main parts of the plant kingdom.

Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminar and in the “Übung”/lab course. Students have to make drawing during the practical course. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity of Invertebrates I


Lampert

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-5D/6D Area: Phylogeny,


2nd Semester


Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity of

Invertebrates (L)

1 1 RUB Tollrian, Lampert, Eltz, Leese


Invertebrates (S)



Invertebrates (Ü)









Bochum, ND 05/152, will be announced later

Time and location: 08.06.2015 – 19.06.2015, full-time

Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (Ü); written exam (L, S)

Study objectives/competences: Students obtain deepened knowledge in the areas ecology of domestic habitats, biodiversity, functional morphology, systematics, nature conservation Course contents:

Blueprints/structure of living organisms, functional morphology, histology (in the first week) of invertebrates; ecology, statistics, biodiversity acquisition, field excursions to ecosystems and nature conservation projects, chemical ecology in laboratory and field work. Various groups of organisms and their adaptations to their respective habitats will be presented. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminar and “Übung”/practical course. A protocol about the conducted experiments has to be written. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Ecology, Evolution and Biodiversity of Invertebrates II


Lampert

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-5E/6E Area: Phylogeny,


2nd Semester



Invertebrates (L)



Invertebrates (S)



Invertebrates (Ü)







This module can only be selected in combination with the

Invertebrates I module



Bochum, ND 05/152, like Invertebrates I: will be announced

later

Time and location: 22.06.2015 – 03.07.2015, all-day

Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (Ü); written exam (L, S)

Study objectives/competences: Students obtain deepened knowledge in the areas of ecology of domestic habitats, biodiversity, functional morphology, systematics, nature conservation Course contents:

Blueprints/structure of living organisms, functional morphology, histology (first week) of invertebrates; ecology, statistics, biodiversity acquisition, field excursions to ecosystems and nature conservation projects, chemical ecology in laboratory and field work. Various groups of organisms and their adaptations to their respective habitats will be presented. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminar and “Übung”/practical course. A protocol about the conducted experiments has to be written. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Population Genetics and Phylogeny I


Lampert

every WS

Module number: Biodiv-M-5F/6F Area: Phylogeny,


3rd Semester


Population Genetics and Phylogeny (L) 1 1 RUB Tollrian, Leese, Lampert

Population Genetics and Phylogeny (S) 1 1 RUB Tollrian, Leese, Lampert

Population Genetics and Phylogeny (Ü) 4 4 RUB Tollrian, Leese, Lampert



Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 90/180 h Start: Mid-November 2015



Population Genetics and Phylogeny I and II are inseparably

connected! If elected, both modules need to be passed.



See notice

Time and location: See notice (always in the second third of the semester)

Type of exam Protocol/Scientific report (Ü); written exam (L, S)

Study objectives/competences: Students know the basics of evolution ecology with the focus on population genetics and phylogeny. They know the theoretical foundations of population genetics and phylogeny and have deepened basic laboratory techniques like DNA extraction and PCR. They can analyse and interpret data. Course contents:

The course offers an introduction to evolution ecology. The main focus is set on population genetics and phylogeny in theory and practise. The students are supposed to gain insight into scientific operating principles and questions of evolution ecology and to be enabled to plan, carry out and optimally present their own scientific projects. Therefore all levels of scientific practise are imparted not only in theoretical, but also in practical exercises. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars and “Übungen”/practical courses. A scientific protocol about the conducted experiments has to be written. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Population Genetics und Phylogeny II


Leese

every WS

Module number: Biodiv-M-5G/6G Area: Phylogeny,


3rd Semester


Population Genetics and Phylogeny (L) 1 1 RUB Tollrian, Leese, Lampert

Population Genetics and Phylogeny (S) 1 1 RUB Tollrian, Leese, Lampert

Population Genetics and Phylogeny (Ü) 4 4 RUB Tollrian, Leese, Lampert



Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 90/180 h Start: Early December 2015



Population Genetics and Phylogeny I and II are inseparably

connected! If elected, both modules need to be passed.



See notice

Time and location: See notice (always in the 2nd third of the semester)

Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (Ü); written exam (L; S)

Study objectives/competences: Students know the basics of evolution ecology with the focus on population genetics and phylogeny. They know the theoretical foundations of population genetics and phylogeny and have deepened basic laboratory techniques like DNA extraction and PCR. They can analyse and interpret data. Course contents:

The course offers an introduction to evolution ecology. The main focus is set on population genetics and phylogeny in theory and practise. The students are supposed to gain insight into scientific operating principles and questions of evolution ecology and to be enabled to plan, carry out and optimally present their own scientific projects. Therefore all levels of scientific practise are imparted not only in theoretical, but also in practical exercises. A two-day-long introduction to next generation sequencing in evolution biology with practise examples will take place in the phylogeny part. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars and “Übungen”/practical courses. A scientific protocol about the conducted experiments has to be written. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Elective course area The module Biodiversity M-7 (basic module) and the module Biodiversity M-8 (complementary module) can be selected from the specialisation area "Functional Diversity and Diversity of Natural Systems". Each module can be a basic or a complementary module. In order to complete a basic module, an oral exam must be passed in addition to the actual exam. This oral examination has a learning expenditure of 90 hours; therefore it is credited with 3 credit points. The specialisation area "Functional Diversity and Diversity of Natural Systems" includes the following elective modules:

- Parasitology - Freshwater Ecology (Limnology) - Terrestrial Ecology, Comparative Sensory Ecology and Ethoendocrinology - Flora and Vegetation of Slovenia - Behavioural Physiology - Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology - Ecology and Biodiversity of Marine Habitats I - Ecology and Biodiversity of Marine Habitats with an Excursion to the Azores II - Biodiversity and Ecology of the Alps

For reasons of clarity every module is listed only once, the module number and the achievable credit points are the result of the student's selection of the module as a basic module or as a complementary module.

Parasitology


Sures

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7A/8A Area: Functional Diversity

and Diversity of Natural

Systems

2nd Semester


Parasitology (L) 3 2 UDE Sures

Parasitology (S) 3 2 UDE Sures



Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 90/180 h Start: see notice





See notice

Time and location: Fridays 8 AM - 12 PM

Type of exam presentation (S); oral exam (L)

Study objectives/competences: Lecture: The students know the ecological and ecosystematical importance of parasites.

Seminar: Students can prepare and present knowledge based on primary literature. They can practically carry out easy parasitological experiments and statistical evaluations.

Key qualifications: Ability to extract knowledge in the context of the teaching form "lecture"; ability to systematically and purposeful work out new subject knowledge in a limited time period from partially English-language literature and the ability to present this knowledge in the form of a presentation; carrying out of statistical evaluations. Course contents:

Lecture: Students know the main aspects of parasitology from the point of view of ecology. Among others, the main topics are: Diversity of parasites, parasites as indicators of environmental conditions; parasites as markers for host populations, host-parasite-co-evolution, the role of parasites in food webs; parasite-caused behaviour modifications of hosts; parasites as neozoans, etc.

Seminar: The contents of the individual course days of the lecture „Parasitology“will each be complemented through 1-2 presentations or practical exercises. The practical exercises will be carried out in small groups and refer to microscopic analyses of typical representatives of the most important parasite groups or to practical experiments regarding parasitology. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars and “Übungen”/practical courses. Oral presentation in the form of a “Referat” (presentation). If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Freshwater Ecology (Limnology)


Hering

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7B/8B Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester


Freshwater Ecology (Limnology) (S) 3 2 UDE Lorenz

Freshwater Ecology (Limnology) (I) 3 2 UDE Lorenz



Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 90/180 h Start: 10.08.-21.8.2015

Number of participants: 16 (S)/16 (P)




See notice

Time and location: See notice

Type of exam presentation (S) ; oral exam (S); I: participation

Study objectives/competences: Seminar: The students have in-depth knowledge of limnic ecosystems, in particular the communities, the environmental conditions, the biotic interactions, the methods of analysis of rivers and / or lakes, the endangerment and restoration of rivers and / or lakes. Key Qualification: Exemplary knowledge of an ecosystem.

Practical course: Students know practical methods for the analysis and evaluation of an ecosystem. They have the knowledge of planning and designing ecological studies, of practical carrying out, of data processing and analysis as well as written and oral presentations.

Course contents:

Seminar: Autonomous development of the fundamental principles relating to flowing water and / or lake ecology. Group work according to those topics referred to in "learning objectives" with direct preparation of practical work in the practical course "Freshwater Ecology".

Practical/Lab course: According to the concept developed within the seminar "Freshwater Ecology" lakes or rivers are simultaneously examined by student groups. The data collected in group work are evaluated in terms of assessment& restoration, the use of similarity indices, correlation and regression analyses.

Notes: Students need to be in good physical shape for the field work; the ability to ride a bicycle is expected. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade.

Terrestrial Ecology


Pfanz

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7C/8C Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester


Terrestrial Ecology (L) 3 2 UDE Pfanz

Terrestrial Ecology (S) 3 2 UDE Pfanz








On the first Thursday in the semester at 10.00 AM c.t.

Time and location: Thursdays from 10 AM - 2 PM

Type of exam Written test (L, S); presentation (S); oral exam (L)

Study objectives/competences: Lecture: The students master the fundamentals of terrestrial ecology and have knowledge of current ecological research fields. Seminar: The students have in-depth knowledge of the various ecosystems and ecosystem teaching. Students can record and evaluate anthropogenic activities and their effects on various terrestrial ecosystems. They can classify the functions of ecosystems and know the important parameters and their impact on ecosystems. Key Qualifications: Ability to extract knowledge in the context of the teaching form "lecture"; Ability to systematically and goal-oriented gain new knowledge in a limited time period; presentation skills Course contents: Lecture: definitions, terms; large terrestrial habitats of the earth; terrestrial formations; zonobioms of the earth; autecology, synecology (population ecology, ecosystem research); environmental factors; trophic interactions; communities and habitats; ecosystem dynamics; succession and mosaic cycle concept; production and stability; ecosystem types; structural and functional relationships of selected ecosystems; methods for ecosystem analysis; indications of anthropogenic influence; current environmental problems (global change - climate change, greenhouse effect, etc.); current ecological research fields. Seminar: Discussion of selected terrestrial systems / habitats. Understanding of the effect of abiotic (e.g. water, light, nutrients, salts, wind, lightning, etc.) and biotic (e.g. herbivory, phytopathological microorganisms, competition) environmental parameters. Analysis of structural and functional relationships of selected ecosystems. Interactions, adaptation strategies and defense mechanisms

Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars and “Übungen”/practical courses. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Comparative Sensory Ecology and Ethoendocrinology


Burda

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7D/8D Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester


Comparative Sensory Ecology and

Ethoendocrinology (L)

3 2 UDE Burda

Comparative Sensory Ecology and

Ethoendocrinology (S)

3 2 UDE Malkemper, Henning, Begall




Number of participants: 200 (VL) / 25 (S)




Seminar: 09.04.2015 (location will be announced later)

Time and location: L: Thursdays 8-10 AM

S: Thursdays 10 AM - 12 PM

Type of exam presentation(S); oral exam (L)

Study objectives / competences:

Students know the proximate mechanisms of behaviour (esp. neural and hormonal control) and the principles of sensory perception and information processing, and their significance for the ecology, evolution and behavior of animals. Students can plan and carry out behavioural experiments for sensory biology on humans and animals. The thesis of the co-evolution between the morphology and function of the sense organs and the way of life of the animals is the centre of the course - from the morphological study of the sense organs students can assess their physiological performance and the behavioural ecology of animals.

Lecture: The students know the basics of comparative sensory ecology and ethoendocrinology. The focus is on the structure and function of the various sensory systems, which are comparatively examined for all animal groups. In addition to the "classic" senses exceptional sensory abilities and senses will be discussed. Students will understand which sense performances are in high demand in which habitat and which characteristic requirements must be submitted to the respective sensory system. Furthermore they know the interactions between hormones and behaviour.

Seminar: The students have gained basic knowledge of the various sensory systems and ethoendo-crinological aspects within the course. Based on current scientific texts contents are deepened. The students independently work out one or more English original articles and present the results in the seminar.

Key qualification: Ability to retrieve knowledge in the context of the teaching form "lecture"; ability to systematically and goal-oriented develop new subject knowledge in a limited time period; ability to speak and write in an appropriate scientific style; methodical competence; planning and carrying out of sampling campaigns, knowledge about EDP-supported processing of data and their presentations in the form of tables, diagrams and texts.

Course contents:

Lecture: mechanoreception, visual system, hearing system, sense of balance, sense of smell, sense of taste, electroreception, magnetoreception, hormonal control of behaviour, effect of sex and stress hormones on behavior

Seminar: Current Issues in sense biology and sense ethoendocrinology Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Behavioural Physiology


Kirchner

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7F/8F Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester


Behavioural Physiology (L) 1 1 RUB Kirchner

Behavioural Physiology (S) 1 1 RUB Kirchner

Behavioural Physiology (Ü) 4 4 RUB Kirchner








Probably15.04.2015, 12.15 PM, ND03/99

Time and location: 15.06.-26.06.2015, full-time, NCDF06/698

Type of exam Übung /scientific report (Ü); oral exam (L, S)

Study objectives/competences: The students know questions and experimental working methods of behavioural physiology. Course contents:

The daily 2-hour lecture imparts basics and up-to-date research outcomes of behavioural physiology based on selected examples.

Various methodical approaches of behavioural physiology will be presented during the practical course. During field- and laboratory work the studies will mainly be conducted with social insects.

Current papers from the area of the topics of the experimental projects will be presented in the seminar. Notes: If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. Every participant has to give an oral presentation. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Behavioural Ecology and Sociobiology


Kirchner

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7G/8G Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester



(L)

1 1 RUB Kirchner


(S)

1 1 RUB Kirchner


(Ü)

4 4 RUB Kirchner








Probably15.04.2015, 12.15 PM, ND03/99

Time and location: 29.06.-10.07.2015 (full time), NCDF06/698


Study objectives/competences: Students know questions, scientific approaches and working methods of behavioural ecology and sociobiology. Course contents:

The daily 2-hour lecture imparts basics and up-to-date research outcomes of behavioural ecology and sociobiology based on selected examples.

Various methodical approaches of behavioural ecology and sociobiology will be presented during the practical course. The studies during field- and laboratory work will mainly be conducted with social insects.

Current papers from the area of the topics of the experimental projects will be presented in the seminar. Notes: If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. Every participant has to give an oral presentation. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Ecology and Biodiversity of Marine Habitats I


Tollrian

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7H/8H Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester


Ecology and Biodiversity of Marine

Habitats (L)

2 2 RUB Tollrian

Ecology and Biodiversity of Marine

Habitats (S)

4 3 RUB Tollrian








See notice


Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (S); written examination (L)

Study objectives/competences: Students possess deepened knowledge of forms and ecology of organisms, biodiversity of coral reefs, mangroves and deserts. Course contents:

Determinations of collection and aquarium material, planning of experiments, transfer of knowledge about functions of organisms in ecosystems. Knowledge about nature conservation and management of national parks. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars and “Übungen”/practical courses. A presentation has to be given in the seminar. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The module is a requirement for "Ecology and Biodiversity of maritime habitats with an Excursion to the Azores". The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Ecology and Biodiversity of Marine Habitats with an Excursion to the Azores II


Tollrian

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7I/8I Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester


Excursion Azores (Ü) 6 6 RUB Tollrian





Participation requirements: Modules Biodiv-M-1 & Biodiv-M-2 passed ;

Diver´s license and health certificate at the time of the

module



See notice


Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (Ü); written examination (Ü)

Study objectives/competences: Students possess deepened knowledge of forms and ecology of organisms, biodiversity of coral reefs, mangroves and deserts. Planning, carrying out and evaluation of experiments. Course contents:

Determinations of collection material as well as of living organisms during the excursion; Carrying out of experiments during the excursion, transfer of knowledge about functions of organisms in ecosystems; visits to various national parks, knowledge about nature conservation and management of national parks. Notes: A diving course for non-divers will be organised via the Hochschulsport (University Sports). Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminars and “Übungen”/practical courses. In the seminar a presentation has to be given. If the module has been selected as a basic module, the study objectives of the module will be tested in an oral exam with a study expenditure of 90 hours (3 CP). This examination is omitted in the complementary module. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. The module "Ecology and Biodiversity of maritime habitats" is required for this module. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Biodiversity and Ecology of the Alps


Boenigk

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-7J/8J Area: Functional Diversity


Systems

2nd Semester


Seminar: Biodiversity and Ecology of

the Alps (S)

3 2 DUE Boenigk, Bock

Practical/Lab course (Ü) 3 2 DUE Boenigk, Bock

Sum 9 CP as basic module


Contact time: h Self-study: h Start: see notice





See notice

Time and location: Excursion from 28.07.– 06.08.2015 and preparatory seminar

in the 2nd half of the semester

Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (S); written examination (S), Ü:

participation

Study objectives/competences: Students possess deepened knowledge of the vegetation and biodiversity of the Alps and the Alpine foothills with the focus on the biodiversity of terrestrial and aquatic habitats of the different altitude zones (vegetation stages). Students can independently handle different kinds of classification literature and possess knowledge regarding the planning, carrying out and evaluation of vegetation mapping and plankton specimen. Course contents:

Vegetation mapping of terrestrial vegetation of various altitude zones, independent classifying of plants, knowledge about mountaneous, subalpine and alpine vegetation.

Mapping of plankton societies in Alp lakes, independent classifying of plankton organisms, knowledge about phytoplankton of lakes.

General aspects of ecology and geography of the Alps will additionally be covered. Notes: Constant presence and active participation are necessary in the seminar and during the excursion. In the seminar a presentation has to be given. Costs for the excursions and for the transport to the excursion locations will come up. On request/when required the courses will be held in English.

Cross-sectional area

Modules from the cross-sectional area can be accredited as complementary modules in the specialisation area "Functional Diversity and Diversity of Natural Systems" as well as in "Phylogeny, Systematics, and Taxonomy". The cross-sectional area includes the following elective course modules:

Mathematical models in Biology Communicating biodiversity

For reasons of clarity every module is listed only once, the module number is the result of the assignment to one of the two specialisation areas.

Mathematical Models in Biology


Hoffmann

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-6H/8K Area: "Phylogeny,

Systematics, Taxonomy" or

"Functional Diversity and

Diversity of Natural Systems"

2nd Semester


Mathematical Models in Biology (VL) 3 2 UDE Hoffmann

Mathematical Models in Biology (S) 3 2 UDE Hoffmann

Sum 6 6 6 CP as complementary module






UDE Campus Essen, S03 S03 A05,

07.04.2015, 9:00 AM

Time and location: Tuesdays from 9 AM - 12 PM

Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (S); L: participation

Study objectives/competences: Students have an overview of mathematical concepts and methods for the quantitative modeling of biological systems. Together with colleagues from mathematics, students are able to deal with research literature on mathematical or computational modeling of biological systems. The students have an overview of mathematical methods for the quantitative modeling of biological systems. They understand examples in which mathematical methods have been successfully used for the quantitative modeling of biological systems. They have an overview of computational methods for mathematical modeling.

- Interdisciplinary dialogue skills and interdisciplinary work are highlighted (here: biology and mathematics) Course contents:

Lecture: Quantitative modeling of biological systems and processes, e.g. dynamic phenomena (e.g., infections, population dynamics) with linear and non-linear models, linear algebra, difference and differential equations; Modeling of phylogenies and evolutionary phenomena with game and graph theory and probabilistic models; reaction kinetics and formation of biological spatiotemporal patterns (e.g. from developmental biology) with differential equations .. Free open source software for mathematical modeling.

Seminar: The contents are based on current issues in research on biological and biomedical systems using mathematical methods, whereby emphasis is placed on research papers, for which the basics were given in the accompanying lecture. Notes: Lecture in English; seminar in English or German, together with students of mathematics. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade

Communicating Biodiversity


Henze

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-6I/8L Area: "Phylogeny,

Systematics, Taxonomy" or

"Functional Diversity and

Diversity of Natural Systems"

2nd Semester


Biological Diversity and Education for a

Lasting Development (VL)

3 2 UDE Henze

Communicating Biodiversity – Issues

and approaches for education- and

communication-offers (S)

3 2 UDE Henze

Sum 6 6 6 CP as complementary module






See notice

Time and location: Mondays from 10 AM - 2 PM (for the room see notice)

Type of exam Scientific draft (S) (15-20 pages): The draft must be prepared during the semester and submitted by a specified date (about 2.5 weeks before the end of the semester). Within the last two course dates there will be brief presentations of the submitted drafts (presentations will not be graded); L: Participation

Study objectives/competences: The students deal with biodiversity in the context of sustainable development and target-group-oriented approaches to communication services. Students have a deepened understanding of the basics of pedagogical and psychological learning for the communication of the necessity of the protection and sustainable use of biological diversity.

Key qualifications (learning outcomes): ability to extract knowledge in the context of the teaching form "lecture"; ability to systematically, goal-oriented and course-related develop new knowledge in a limited time period; ability to write and speak in a scientific way; reading and understanding of original papers, critical analysis of subject literature.

Based on the analysis of the concept of sustainable development, students develop a deeper, more reflective understanding of objectives of an education for sustainable development, didactic and methodological principles for dealing with topics in the context of biological diversity as well as basic principles of the psychology of learning and target-group-specific orientations.

Course contents:

Guiding principle of a sustainable development including various dimensions; biological diversity in the context of sustainable development; agreement on biological diversity; National Biodiversity Strategy; concerns through targeting of an education for sustainable development including methodological arrangements. Studies on awareness and attitudes regarding biological diversity; teaching / communication-related perspectives for addressing different target groups / social backgrounds.

1-2 field trips are planned as part of the elective course module (including to the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, Bonn). The exact dates will be announced at the beginning of the elective module. Notes: Attendance is mandatory for excursions. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. Upon request/If required, the courses will be held in English.

Internship


Internship supervisor

every WS

Module number: Biodiv-M-9 3rd Semester


Internship 27 RUB & UDE Internship supervisor

Internet colloquium (S) 3 2 RUB & UDE Begerow, Boenigk

Sum 30

Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 810 h Start: WS 2015/2016

Number of participants:

Participation requirements: All modules of the 1st and the 2nd semester



Upon consultation

Time and location: Upon consultation

Type of exam Protocol/scientific report (S); internship: participation

Study objectives/competences: Students are able to organise an internship. They know the channels of communication between internship and supervisor. They plan the tasks that have to be done, which lead to the solution of a scientific problem and they can create a realistic time and work schedule. The internship is also used as preparation for scientific work within the master thesis. Course contents:

The 20-week-long internship deepens the individual skills in a chosen field of research or application. Individual learning contents are agreed upon after consultation with the course guiding service. In addition, the preparation and review of the internship, as well as the preparation of an exposé and a protocol are included in the module. Notes:

Addresses for internships are available in the examination office. Students have to search for their specific internship-supervisor at their home university themselves. Constant presence is necessary in the Internet colloquium. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. Normally the courses will be held in English.

Master project


Supervisor of the master

thesis

Every SS

Module number: Biodiv-M-10 4th Semester


Master thesis 28 RUB &UDE Supervisor of the master

thesis

Master colloquium 2 2 RUB &UDE Supervisor of the master

thesis

Sum 30

Contact time: 120 h Self-study: 840 h Start: SS 2016

Number of participants:

Participation requirements: All modules of the 1st, 2nd and 3rd semester



Upon consultation

Time and location: Upon consultation

Type of exam Master thesis and presentation including defense

Study objectives/competences: Students possess the fundamentals to deepen their scientific knowledge within a doctorate. They can independently and methodically develop a question typical of a master degree course from the area of biology on a scientific foundation; are able to systematically present work outcomes, place them in the context of already existing data, to interpret and to document, as well as to plan building up on the outcomes of further experiments. Course contents:

Planning, carrying out and writing of a master thesis. Notes:

The master thesis takes a total of 20 weeks and includes besides the experimental work a written elaboration of the topic. The grade - weighted with the CP - is part of the final grade. Upon request/when required the final colloquium will be held in English.

handbook of modules · the examinations in module 1 (basic course biodiversity) and in the two...

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