Human Ecology I

(Course Code: 135KEY, Course outline)

Semester:  7 Teaching Credits:  3 ECTS Credits: 5 Type:

Optional Compulsory
Prerequisite Courses: Introduction to Ecology Course type: Special background Instructor: Andreas Troumbis
  • The course extends on questions of human Physical Anthropology, Demography and Historical Epidemiology and Nutrition (including analysis and modelling of evolutionary and environmental issues as approached through classical ecological thinking).
  • Techniques of scenario building, especially in demographic issues
  • Techniques of population dynamics and use of modelling packages, i.e. Populus v.6 and NetLogo
  • International Programmes predictions and forecasts for SDGs 2030, improved Aichi 2020 targets and IPCC scenarios 2050 and beyond
  • Upon completion of the course, students are expected to understand and master
    • The importance and utility of ecological systems theory transgressing over multiple singular fields of environmental science.
    • The concepts, mechanics and dynamics of planetary change, especially in its interaction with- and importance for- biodiversity and ecosystem functions as influenced by human population dynamics.
    • The development and use of mathematical models in problem solving approaches regarding growth, extinction, exhaustion of resources, steady state conditions and ecosystem level functions (stocks and flows)
Topics per Week:
  • Field 1: Concepts, Methods and Technics for Ecosystem level models for processes and functions as influenced and/or disturbed by human demography
  • Field 2: Applied exercises on disturbance effects upon biodiversity and ecosystem level functioning in long-term human perspective and strategies.
Theory – Lectures
(hours / week):		 1,5
Exercises – Laboratories
(hours / week):		 1,5
Other Activities:  –
Grading: written exams (50%), small projects (50%)
Notes: Lecture slides in PowerPoint format, written instructions for the laboratory exercises
Basic Textbook:
Bibliography:
Language:

The course is taught in Greek. For exchange students, English literature is proposed and examinations are given in English
Internet Links:  

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