Lecturer(s)
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Pokorný Jan, doc. RNDr. CSc.
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Sedláček František, prof. RNDr. CSc.
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Pechar Libor, doc. RNDr. CSc.
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Course content
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Introduction to quantitative plant ecology and types of ecological research. Data collection: objectivity, study design, site selection (random selection, systematic selection, stratified selection, preferential selection), plot size, selection of species of interest; design of field experiments; types of sampling units; relationships of species richness with size and number of sampling plots. Assessment of species quantity/number; estimation techniques, advantages of finer and coarser scales; precision in different parts of the scale; methods of measuring basal area. Methods based on distance measurements, study of spatial relationships, structural regularities and the processes behind them (search for causal relationships deductive approach, manipulative experiments). Techniques for sampling and measuring population biomass, growth and death rates; methods for measuring leaf area index, upper tree canopy cover. Environmental data collection. Temporal aspect of ecological data. Data processing: meaning transformation and standardization of quantitative data, interpretation of results.
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Learning activities and teaching methods
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Monologic (reading, lecture, briefing)
- Preparation for classes
- 60 hours per semester
- Preparation for exam
- 90 hours per semester
- Preparation for credit
- 30 hours per semester
- Class attendance
- 20 hours per semester
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Learning outcomes
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The aim of the course is to acquaint students with the strategy of collecting and processing ecological data, to understand the interactions between economically important organisms of the agroecosystem and the environment. A hierarchically high view of the problem will allow to study the problem in its entirety and interconnectedness, as a scientific basis for alternative agricultural systems in order to ensure the food needs of mankind in the criteria of sustainability.
Students can apply an active working approach and are capable of independent scientific activity in the field. They are able to use a large amount of relevant data (professional literature, their own practical experience in the field, experience of experts), which they are able to analyse, critically evaluate and draw appropriate conclusions. Graduates can apply these skills creatively in their research activities. Students are well prepared for further independent learning and sustained professional growth in the field. Graduates have mastered the ability to think analytically and synthetically.
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Prerequisites
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Students are able to work independently in the field, but they have also mastered the principles of teamwork. They are equipped with the ability to formulate and present their own opinions and communicate them in their native language and in a world language. They are able to communicate information, ideas, identify problems and propose possible solutions without problems. They are able to critically evaluate their approach to a problem; they are able to defend their professional opinion using arguments they have acquired through study and practical experience in the field.
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Assessment methods and criteria
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Student performance assessment, Interview
The scope of knowledge corresponds to the SZZ at ZF JU. Students of the combined form of study have the same obligations as students of the full-time form.
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Recommended literature
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New, T.R. Invertebrate conservation and agricultural ecosystems. 1. ed. Cambridge : Cambridge University Press, 2005. ISBN 0-521-53201-9.
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Rajchard, Josef. Ekologie III : Struktura a funkce ekosystému, produkční ekologie, biogeochemické cykly, chemické faktory prostředí, základy ekologie půdy, ekologie vodního prostředí, aktuální celosvětové ekologické problémy. 1. vyd. Č. Budějovice : KOPP, 2002. ISBN 80-7232-191-9.
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Rychnovská, Milena. Ekologie lučních porostů. 1. vyd. Praha : Academia, 1985.
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