- Description
- Students explain applications of the wildlife research process and conduct a research study on the management of a wildlife space or species.
- Prerequisite
- None
- Parameters
- Sample research articles, a science laboratory and/or an outdoor wilderness environment. Note: This course is a supporting course for WLD3050: Wildlife Management Principles and WLD3060: Wildlife Management Applications. It is recommended that students focus attention on a common theme (i.e., a space or species of particular relevance) throughout WLD3040, WLD3050 and WLD3060.
Outcomes The student will:
1 identify components of the wildlife research process and their application to a sample wildlife space or species
1.1 identify and describe major stages and steps in the research process; e.g., defining a research problem, reviewing existing information, organizing information, proposing a plan for data collection, collecting data, analyzing/assessing data, drawing conclusions and making recommendations based on data, communicating results
1.2 explain applications of the research process in finding answers to questions about wildlife spaces or species
1.3 relate the research process to an existing piece of wildlife research
2 plan and conduct a research study on the management of a wildlife space or species
2.1 identify a problem or question regarding a wildlife space or species; e.g., growth rate of a plant, bird preference for seed type, effect of light on plant growth, habitat preference of a mammal, overwintering of species, reproductive rate of composting worms
2.2 outline sources for background information about the problem or question; e.g., library, Internet, interview
2.3 propose a plan for conducting research related to the problem or question; e.g., research proposal, logistics, partnerships
2.4 plan and conduct a research study in an ethical manner, considering but not limited to:
2.4.1 assessment and minimization of potential sources of harm to study and non-study species
2.4.2 non-intrusive collection of samples; e.g., scat, cast-off hair, feathers, branches and leaves
2.4.3 minimization of the frequency and duration of human observation
2.4.4 minimization of disturbances that can lead to abandonment of the habitat
2.4.5 access to traditional/local knowledge and community values
2.5 describe baseline and specific data, using a variety of information-gathering techniques; e.g., sampling and surveys, observation, measurement and estimation, experimentation
2.6 analyze and interpret data and formulate further questions
2.7 draw conclusions related to the problem or question; e.g., recommendations, management actions, further research
2.8 communicate the results of his or her research
3 demonstrate basic competencies
3.1 demonstrate fundamental skills to:
3.1.1 communicate
3.1.2 manage information
3.1.3 use numbers
3.1.4 think and solve problems
3.2 demonstrate personal management skills to:
3.2.1 demonstrate positive attitudes and behaviours
3.2.2 be responsible
3.2.3 be adaptable
3.2.4 learn continuously
3.2.5 work safely
3.3 demonstrate teamwork skills to:
3.3.1 work with others
3.3.2 participate in projects and tasks
4 create a transitional strategy to accommodate personal changes and build personal values
4.1 identify short-term and long-term goals
4.2 identify steps to achieve goals
Program of Studies 2010. Source document, © Alberta Education.