Animal behavior - Ethology

The aim of this teaching unit is to understand animal behavior in an integrative way, in light of Tinbergen's four "whys": from its ontogenesis and neurobiological causes to its evolution and biological functions. In addition to historical, conceptual, and methodological contributions, students will be guided in understanding the diversity of traits involved, as well as the diversity of approaches and associated scientific questions. This teaching unit will thus highlight, through various examples, the diversity of disciplines studying animal behavior: neuroscience, ethology, behavioral ecology, and will enable students to pursue their studies in the appropriate fields: animal physiology and neuroscience/evolutionary biology and ecology/others, etc.

Knowledge: Subject-specific skills

Mobilize fundamental concepts of behavioral biology

Learn about the different schools of thought on the relationship between the brain and behavior.

Understanding the relationships between genotype and phenotype (morphology, anatomy, behavior, interactions) and their evolution

Understanding the major neurobiological processes that guide behavioral responses

Understanding species interactions within communities and their role in the structure and dynamics of biodiversity

Understanding the concept of behavioral adaptation related to environmental changes

Knowledge of major neurophysiological functions and their diversity, in interaction with the biotic or abiotic environment

Understanding the impact of stress and natural and anthropogenic disturbances on biodiversity (from the organism to the biosphere)

Expertise:

Know and be able to implement the various approaches and tools used in neuroscience, ethology, and behavioral ecology: observation, sampling, experimentation, and statistical analysis.      

Know the scientific vocabulary associated with the disciplines, understand a simple written or oral scientific source, be able to understand a document intended for the general public in French or English (written, oral, or video).

Know how to use concepts and tools from different disciplines to analyze a document, an observation, or the results of an experiment.

Be able to develop a logical argument with a critical mind (limitations, comparison with the literature, defense of a point of view)           

Know how to give an oral presentation and write a scientific report, using illustrations and a presentation tailored to the audience, with the help of appropriate IT tools.

Be able to propose a problem, propose and implement an observation approach, a sampling plan or an experimental approach, and analyze the resulting data using computer tools for data entry, analysis, and storage.

Be able to use the different registers of written and spoken French with ease.

Interpersonal skills:

Knowing how to successfully complete a project within a group  

Ability to work independently, adapt to new situations, and take appropriate initiative

Knowing how to position oneself within a group for the purpose of implementing the project, knowing how to listen and exchange ideas

Respect the principles of ethics, professional conduct, and environmental responsibility.

Respect others as well as the equipment and organizations on which the student is working.

Major EU countries in L1