Terrestrial Ecosystems (9cr)
Course unit code: E-11122
General information
- Credits
- 9 cr
Objectives
The aim of the course is to learn the fundamentals of the structure and function of the main terrestrial ecosystems and the utilisation of land resources. Special emphasis is aimed to soils and their role in ecosystems.
Content
Soil structure and formation, chemical and biological processes in soils and the interactions between soils and vegetation, the role of soils in the environment,the main land use practices and the environmental changes that these practices are causing (forestry, peatland utilisation, agriculture), the present situation of the land resources and land utilisation in Finland, how the negative effects of land use practices can be minimised. The course includes guidance of information retrieval and critical use of information sources and is integrated with Scientific Reporting and Academic Skills course.
Further information
Literature: Miller, G. Tyler Jr. Living in the Environment. 2004. ISBN 0-534-27411-0 (or latest edition) and handouts given during the lectures Educational methods: teach-in, activating writing, demonstrations, series of lectures, study conversation, self study/distance learning, exercises, assignments, practical work, coursework, summary report/essay, exam, collective learning, net learning, field-work (incl. study trips), laboratory work/workshop and group exam. Language of instruction: English. Study year: 1.