This module will inform students how climate has influenced the diversity of life on Earth, from past to present, and its likely future impacts. We will begin with a summary of the physical science basis of contemporary climate change and the role that anthropogenic factors have played since the commencement of the industrial era. We will then explore the biological and ecological impacts of climate change on individual organisms, populations and communities, with particular emphasis given to understanding how species are responding. The module will then explore how conservation biologists are using particular interventions to ameliorate the most harmful and destabilising effects of climate change. From a more general perspective, the social, economic and political ways in which climate change can be mitigated will be assessed.
Private Study: 128
Contact Hours: 22
Total: 150
Optional to the following courses:
• BSc in Wildlife Conservation
• BSc Human Geography
• BA Environmental Social Science/Environment and Sustainability
• BSc Biology
*Including cognate courses
Prerequisite WCON3111 or equivalent
Also available as an elective module
Main assessment methods
Critical Writing Assignment (2500 words) (50%)*
COP briefing assignment (1000 words) (20%)
COP portfolio (30%)*
* This element is pass compulsory and must be passed to achieve the learning outcomes of the module
Reassessment methods:
Like for Like
The University is committed to ensuring that core reading materials are in accessible electronic format in line with the Kent Inclusive Practices.
The most up to date reading list for each module can be found on the university's reading list pages.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
1 Demonstrate a clear understanding of past, present and possible future climates;
2 Demonstrate a detailed knowledge of the contribution anthropogenic factors have played in contemporary climate change;
3 Demonstrate an advanced comprehension of how organisms, populations and communities have/will respond to climate change;
4 Demonstrate synthesis of the measures that can be taken to mitigate climate change;
5 Demonstrate critical evaluation of the various conservation actions/interventions that may be needed in a changing climate.
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