BI1AB1-Animal Behaviour

Module Provider: School of Biological Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: BI1BG3 Practical Biochemistry
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Richard Sibly
Email: r.m.sibly@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

Ever wondered what science underlies commentaries to wildlife documentaries? Here you’ll learn the scientific methods used to study animal behaviour, the principal theories underlying its study, and how facts are established from systematic observations and experiments. Key topics are the effects of nature vs nurture, the theory of the selfish gene, why animals fight and why and when they help each other. Classic documentary films illustrate key points in lectures.

Aims:

This module aims to provide a general introduction to the study of animal behaviour and shows how facts about behaviour are established. Attention is given to how and why central hypotheses are formulated, how experiments are designed to distinguish between hypotheses, and how the results are analysed and interpreted.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• Describe and justify some of the main theoretical approaches in animal behaviour


• Describe research findings in selected areas of animal behaviour

Additional outcomes:

The practicals help students develop a deeper understanding of behavioural ecology.

Outline content:

This module provides a general introduction to the study of behaviour. Both the classical ethological and the selfish-gene approaches are described. In order to understand behaviour, it is necessary to consider its role in increasing the chances that an individual will survive and reproduce. Such considerations are relevant to man and domesticated animals as well as to 'wild' species. Topics covered may include: To what extent are behaviours genetically determined and to what extent d o they depend on developmental experience? Why have some behaviours evolved in some situations but not others? How have altruistic behaviours evolved, and which individuals receive help? Why do animals fight and which individuals do they fight? In what circumstances do learning and communication have survival value? Suggestions for further reading are provided and the student is encouraged to read around the lectures.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods: