Animal Behavior

biological sciences

elementary

BI2_W01, BI2_W04,

None

Lecture topics:

1. Introduction. Classification of animals. The history of the study of animal behavior and psyche.

2. Behavior of invertebrates.

3. Behavior of lower vertebrates.

4-7. Bird behavior.

8-13. Behavior of mammals.

14. Mating behavior, sexual selection, instincts. Complex forms of animal behavior.

15. Social life of animals. Effects of domestication. Summary of the course.

KNOWLEDGE: The student understands complex biological phenomena and processes conditioning the behavior of animals belonging to different evolutionary lines; has knowledge of basic concepts, terms and names related to the structure and functioning of the nervous system; has in-depth knowledge of the exact sciences related to biology, in particular the nutritional biology of various species, their reproductive biology and predator avoidance strategies; has general and specific knowledge of animal behavior; has knowledge of current ethological problems.

In terms of skills: the student is fluent in using literature on ecology and ethology in Polish; is able to critically analyze and select information, especially from non-peer reviewed electronic sources; is able to acquire and interpret empirical data in the field of systematics, ethology and ecology, and on this basis to formulate appropriate conclusions; has the ability to form reasonable judgments based on data from various sources.

Relating to competences: The student will broaden the knowledge of the biological mechanisms of animal behavior and their skills, will be aware of the limitations of their cognitive abilities, and at the same time the plasticity of behavior and learning, also in invertebrate animals. This knowledge will enable him to establish cooperation with institutions that protect nature and take care of various species of animals. It will also extend his competences as a biology teacher.

ECTS

Participation in the lecture - 30 hours

Reading list: 20 hours

preparation for the exam: 40 hours

total hours: 90

Number of ECTS: 3

Each lecture will end with a slide asking several questions concerning the topic of the lecture. If the Student learned the content of the lecture,, She/he should be able to answe the questions. Because of the COVID pandemia the exam may have one of the two following forms. It will be conducted either on the Moodle platform or in the class.

The test on the Moodle platform will take 30 minutes during which 30 questions will be presented, each with four answers, of which one will be correct. For indicating each correct answer the Student will receive one point, so the maximal score is 30 points. A minimum for passing the exam is 15 points. 27 points and more will bring the "very good" mark. If the exam will take place in the lecture hall, each student will receive a form with three questions that will require a longer answer, showing Student's knowledge and understanding of the topic. Students will have 90 minutes to write the answers. Each answer will be evaluated on the scale 0-10 points. The sum of points will be transformed into the grade as above.