Ecology: concepts and experiments

The aim of this course is to design a research project on one of the major themes in ecology, such as the ecological niche, biogeography, networks of ecological interactions or functional diversity. A short review of the major theories and concepts in these major ecology themes is presented by specialists in the field. This is followed by example(s) illustrating the conceptual bases for formulating a relevant and new research question, and how to answer it using different methodologies, especially experimental ones, derived from the speakers' own research. Having chosen one of these major themes, each student develops an original research project (the size of an M2 internship), conducting bibliographical research and proposing a coherent experimental plan to test the hypotheses. This project is presented to the lecturers and other students.

-Mobilize the theoretical and conceptual corpus in ecology as a framework for reflection on a problem and/or research question.

-Use of scientific literature to develop scientific questions.

-Reflect on a relevant hypothesis and propose an experimental approach to test it.

-Develop critical thinking and scientific creativity.

- In-depth knowledge of ecological theories and concepts.

- Experience in bibliographic research.

- Individual thinking skills.

100% continuous assessment