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ESM112Sciences2 Unitsintermediate

Introductory Ecology

This course introduces fundamental concepts in ecology and ecosystem management. It explores ecosystem characteristics, processes, and functions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of living organisms and their environment. The course covers energy flow, matter recycling, and species interactions within ecosystems. Students will learn about terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, with a focus on the Nigerian environment, including threats and management approaches. The course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of ecological principles and their application to ecosystem management.

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26h
Study Time
13
Weeks
2h
Per Week
basic
Math Level
Course Keywords
EcologyEcosystemBiodiversityEnvironmental ManagementNigerian Ecosystems

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level
Builds on foundational knowledge
65%
intermediate
➕
Math Level
Basic Math
📖
Learning Type
Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Ecology

2

Ecosystem Components

3

Energy Flow

4

Biogeochemical Cycles

5

Species Interactions

6

Terrestrial Ecosystems

7

Aquatic Ecosystems

8

Nigerian Ecosystems

9

Ecosystem Threats

10

Ecosystem Management

Total Topics10 topics

Requirements

Knowledge and skills recommended for success

Introduction to Ecology

Basic Science Background

💡 Don't have all requirements? Don't worry! Many students successfully complete this course with basic preparation and dedication.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (3 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

tutor-marked assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Computer Based Test

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Environmental Consultant

Apply your skills in this growing field

Conservation Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Ecologist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Environmental Manager

Apply your skills in this growing field

Sustainability Officer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Environmental ConservationNatural Resource ManagementAgricultureUrban PlanningEnvironmental Consulting

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week
1

Module 1:

2h

Unit 1: Ecology

2 study hours
  • •Read the unit introduction and objectives.
  • •Define ecology and explain its importance.
  • •Differentiate between the biosphere and ecosphere.
  • •Describe the one-way flow of energy and recycling of chemicals in the ecosphere.
Week
2

Module 1:

2h

Unit 2: The Ecosystem

2 study hours
  • •Define and describe an ecosystem.
  • •Explain the major living and non-living components of an ecosystem.
  • •Discuss the major features of an ecosystem: interdependence, diversity, resilience, adaptability, unpredictability, and limits.
Week
3

Module 1:

2h

Unit 3: Energy Flow in Ecosystems

2 study hours
  • •Compare and contrast food chains and food webs.
  • •Explain the concept of energy flow pyramid in ecosystems.
  • •Trace the flow of energy from primary producers to higher trophic levels.
  • •Discuss the implications of energy loss at each trophic level.
Week
4

Module 1:

2h

Unit 4: Matters Recycling in Ecosystems I

2 study hours
  • •Describe biogeochemical cycles and their functions.
  • •Explain the types of biogeochemical cycles: gaseous and sedimentary.
  • •Discuss human interventions in matter recycling and their consequences.
Week
5

Module 1:

2h

Unit 5: Species Interaction in Ecosystem

2 study hours
  • •Define species and identify different types of species in an ecosystem.
  • •Explain the roles played by different organisms in an ecosystem.
  • •Describe the types of interactions among organisms: competition, exploitation, mutualism, engineering, and commensalism.
Week
6

Module 2:

2h

Unit 1: Terrestrial Ecosystems 1

2 study hours
  • •Define terrestrial ecosystems.
  • •Explain the factors determining plant types in terrestrial ecosystems: climate, temperature, and precipitation.
  • •Describe the major types of terrestrial ecosystems: deserts, forests, and grasslands.
Week
7

Module 2:

2h

Unit 2: Terrestrial Ecosystems II

2 study hours
  • •Explain the various types of deserts: tropical, temperate, and cold.
  • •Explain the various types of forests: tropical rain forests, temperate deciduous forests, and coniferous forests.
  • •Explain the various types of grasslands: tropical grasslands, temperate grasslands, and polar grasslands.
Week
8

Module 2:

2h

Unit 3: Aquatic Ecosystems & Types

2 study hours
  • •Define aquatic ecosystems.
  • •List the types of world's aquatic ecosystems.
  • •Describe the major types of aquatic ecosystems: oceans and inland water bodies.
Week
9

Module 2:

2h

Unit 4: Major Oceans

2 study hours
  • •Explain the meaning of open sea.
  • •List the examples of open seas of the world.
  • •Discuss the importance of oceans and the aquatic life forms they support.
Week
10

Module 2:

2h

Unit 5: Freshwater Ecosystems

2 study hours
  • •Describe the freshwater ecosystem with examples.
  • •Explain the different types of freshwater ecosystems: lakes, reservoirs, and streams.
  • •Differentiate between freshwater ecosystems and major ocean zones.
Week
11

Module 3:

4h

Unit 1: Overview of Nigerian Environment

2 study hours
  • •Describe the Nigerian environment, including climate, geology, landforms, soils, drainage, hydrology, and vegetation.
  • •Explain the elements that shape the Nigerian ecosystems.

Unit 2: Nigerian Terrestrial Ecosystems

2 study hours
  • •State the different terrestrial ecosystems in Nigeria.
  • •Describe the Nigerian terrestrial ecosystems and their extent.
  • •Locate the different ecosystems on a map of Nigeria.
Week
12

Module 3:

4h

Unit 3: Nigerian Aquatic Ecosystem

2 study hours
  • •Describe the major types of aquatic ecosystems in Nigeria.
  • •Explain the extent and location of Nigeria's aquatic ecosystems.
  • •Explain the biological resources found in aquatic ecosystems and their distribution.

Unit 4: Flora and Fauna in the Nigerian Ecosystem

2 study hours
  • •Explain what flora and fauna are.
  • •Describe the types of flora and fauna found in the Nigerian ecosystem.
  • •Describe the specific flora and fauna found in different Nigerian ecosystems.
Week
13

Module 3:

2h

Unit 5: Threats of Nigerian Ecosystems

2 study hours
  • •Explain the nature of threats to ecosystems.
  • •Identify and describe the types of threat factors: devegetation, erosion, overgrazing, desertification, and human activities.
  • •Discuss the specific threats to Nigerian wetlands and savanna ecosystems.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

Read the complete course material as provided by NOUN.

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review all unit objectives and ensure you can meet them.

2

Create concept maps linking key concepts from Modules 1 and 2.

3

Focus on understanding the specific characteristics of Nigerian ecosystems from Module 3.

4

Practice applying ecosystem management principles to case studies from Module 4.

5

Pay close attention to the definitions and examples of different ecosystem types.

6

Review all tutor-marked assignments and address any feedback from your tutor.

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