Joint Master`s Programme in Alpine Ecology

Transcription

Joint Master’s Programme
in
Alpine Ecology
En fellesgrad i samarbeid med
University of Zilina, Slovakia
XXX Joint Master’s Programme in Alpine
Ecology
Introduction
Alpine areas are increasingly being exposed to a number of different types of environmental
impacts, both biotic and abiotic, that in time may completely change the integrity of alpine
ecosystems. In addition to possible changes in ecosystem function and structure, the
biological diversity found at high altitudes is likely to be negatively affected as well. The
thousands of plants and animals with their specialized adaptations will most certainly face
new challenges in the form of a warmer climate, habitat changes, alien species, and more.
This is particularly true for species that are endemic to the alpine region, which without
proper management are likely to experience population declines or even extinction.
Therefore, knowledge on how to manage and conserve species and their habitats is
imperative in order to protect the alpine environment for the future. The emphasis of the
study programme will be placed on how different management strategies can contribute to
sustainable use, conservation and the recovery of natural resources in the alpine
environment.
Target Group and Admission Requirements
This master's programme is especially designed for students with an educational background
from disciplines related to environmental sciences.
A Bachelor's degree*, which includes 80 credits within the relevant science / environmental
sciences, is required. Minimum grade requirement is C.
Maximum 20 students will be admitted each year. The Institute of High Mountain Biology in
Slovakia has the capacity to supervise 10 students and the Department of Environmental
Science in Norway has the capacity to supervise 10 students. During the application process,
the applicants must choose at which institution they want to study the master thesis.
English requirements
The requirement for English proficiency may be met in one of the following ways:
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International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) with a minimum score of 6.0.
An IELTS test is only valid for two years. You must take the Academic test.
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with a minimum score of 550 for a
paper-based test, a score of at least 210 for a computer-based test or minimum 80
for an internet-based test. A TOEFL test is only valid for two years.
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ĂĐŚĞůŽƌ͛ƐĚĞŐƌĞĞĨƌŽŵh<͕h^͕ĂŶĂĚĂ͕ƵƐƚƌĂůŝĂ͕/ƌĞůĂŶĚŽƌEĞǁĞĂůĂŶĚǁŝƚŚ
English as the language of instruction.
ďĂĐŚĞůŽƌ͛ƐĚĞŐƌĞĞĨƌŽŵŽŶĞŽĨŽƵƌƉĂƌƚŶĞƌŝŶƐƚŝƚƵƚŝŽŶƐŵĂǇďĞƐƵĨĨŝĐŝĞŶƚƚŽŵĞĞƚ
the requirement for English proficiency (individual evaluation of such applicants).
Examples are applicants from the Autonomous University of Madrid, University of
Cumbria, the University of Pune, the University of Zilina and the University of
Greifswald. Since the language of instruction is English you do not have to know the
Norwegian or Slovakian language.
*Bachelor's degree
You must have an education equivalent to a Norwegian and Slovakian Bachelor's degree
with a minimum of 80 ects specialisation in environmental science (ecology, biology,
geology, limnology, or equivalent courses) to be eligible for the Joint master͛Ɛ programme in
Alpine Ecology (i.e. at least three years of higher education, in addition to the minimum
requirements for entrance to higher education in Europe).
All documents must be sent in by the application deadline February 1 st.
Aim of the Programme
The aim of the study programme is to educate graduates with good multidisciplinary
knowledge in the broad field of Alpine Ecology.
Independent work will be emphasised especially for the Master thesis. The student will be
trained to understand and critically evaluate information, methods and research results.
Students will also learn interdisciplinary collaboration and communication, and how
scientific research and reporting is accomplished. Completion of this programme will qualify
for PhD studies.
Learning Outcome
After completing this programme, the students should have the following qualifications
regarding knowledge, skills, and general competence:
Knowledge:
ͻĚǀĂŶĐĞĚŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞŝŶďŝŽůŽŐŝĐĂůand environmental fields such as botany, zoology,
ecology, genetics, ecotoxicology, molecular biology and analytical chemistry methodology
ͻĞƚĂŝůĞĚŬŶŽǁůĞĚŐĞŽĨenvironmental processes and their effects on organisms in alpine
ecosystems
Skills:
ͻĞĂďůĞƚŽƵƐĞand apply relevant scientific knowledge and methods in ecological research
ͻĞĂďůĞƚŽĂĐƋƵŝƌĞ, assess and refer to scientific information and present it both orally and
in writing
ͻĞĂďůĞƚŽĂŶĂůǇǌĞƐĐŝĞŶƚŝĨŝĐƉƌŽďůĞŵƐŽŶƚŚĞďĂƐŝƐŽĨƚƌĂĚŝƚŝŽŶƐŽĨƚŚĞĂĐĂĚĞŵŝĐĨŝĞůĚ of
ecology
ͻBe able to carry out a research project under supervision and in accordance with applicable
norms for research ethics
General Competence:
ͻĞĂďůĞƚŽĂƉƉůǇƚhe knowledge and skills obtained in different arenas/settings
ͻĞĂďůĞƚŽĐŽŵŵƵŶŝĐĂƚĞscientific work and terminology in the field of Environmental
Science
ͻĞĂďůĞƚŽĐŽŶƚƌŝďƵƚĞƚŽŶĞǁideas and knowledge related to management of current
environmental problems
Curriculum and structure
Joint Master in Ecology – with specialisation in Alpine Ecology
Code
Course title
Credits
O/V
*)
Credits pr. semester
S1(A) S2(V) S3(A) S4(V) S5(A) S6(V)
4301
4502
4327
4311
4326
4316
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
xxxx
Courses 1. Semester (TUC, Norway)
Natural science methods
10.00
Alpine biodiversity and climatic
10.00
change
Pollution and microbiology
10.00
Ecological methods
10.00
Molecular genetics
10.00
Special syllabus
10.00
O
O
10
10
V
V
V
V
10
10
10
10
Courses 2. Semester (ZU, Slovakia)
High mountain biology
10.00 O
Strategies of mountain
10.00 O
conservation
GIS ʹ physical geography of
5.00 V
mountains
Environmental forensic
5.00 V
Special syllabus
5.00 V
3. and 4. semester (TUC, Norway ZU, Slovakia)
xxxx
DĂƐƚĞƌ͛ƐdŚĞƐŝƐ
60.00 O
Total:
*) O ʹ Obligatory course, V ʹ Voluntary/Elective course
10
10
10
10
10
0
0
30
0
30
0
0
Elective courses
Please note: In order for an elective subject to be offered, a sufficient number of students
0
must sign up for the course. This is evaluated for each separate course. If too few students
have signed up, the course may be postponed until the following academic year. Under
special circumstances, an elective course may be discontinued. Such decisions will be
discussed with the students so that the quality of the programme is maintained.
Post-graduate courses from other institutions may be accepted if they are relevant. We
encourage students to take advantage of student-exchange arrangements with foreign
universities and colleges.
Limitation regarding some courses
Some of the courses only accept a limited number of applicants, for instance 4327 Pollution
and Microbiology.
The study programme ĐŽŶƐŝƐƚƐŽĨǀĂƌŝŽƵƐĐŽƵƌƐĞƐĐŽŵƉƌŝƐŝŶŐŝŶƚŽƚĂůϲϬd^ĂŶĚĂDĂƐƚĞƌ͛Ɛ
thesis (60 ECTS). The teaching is largely based on one-week modules, and laboratory and
field-oriented teaching. It provides a flexible study programme, and places high demands on
studĞŶƚƐ͛ĂďŝůŝƚǇƚŽǁŽƌŬŝŶĚĞƉĞŶĚĞŶƚůǇ͘
Internationalisation
The students admitted to this study programme will spend the first semester at TUC in
Norway, and the second semester at ZU in Slovakia. The students choose to spend the third
ĂŶĚĨŽƌƚŚƐĞŵĞƐƚĞƌŝŶĂŶǇŽĨƚŚĞƐĞŝŶƐƚŝƚƵƚŝŽŶƐ͕ĚĞƉĞŶĚŝŶŐŽŶƚŚĞĨŽĐƵƐŽĨƚŚĞŝƌŵĂƐƚĞƌ͛Ɛ
thesis. The students may also spend the third semester at a partner institution outside
Norway and Slovakia as exchange students (i.e. through Erasmus +). Exchanges must,
ŚŽǁĞǀĞƌ͕ďĞĂƉƉƌŽǀĞĚďǇƚŚĞƐƚƵĚĞŶƚ͛ƐƐƵƉĞƌǀŝƐŽƌ͘
This is an international study programme which admits Slovakian and Norwegian students,
and students from partner institutions from all over the world. An exchange period (30
ects/one semester) abroad may be accepted as part of the degree.
Teaching and Learning Methods
The study program consists of courses that are a combination of lectures, field work, field
trips and laboratory exercises (see course descriptions for details). All field work and
laboratory exercises are mandatory, Absence of up to 20% of the mandatory part of courses
will be accepted according to national legislation and university regulations. The reasons of
absences without relevant justification or relevant confirmations will be not accepted.
Combining theory and practice is central throughout the study programme. This will provide
the students with the necessary knowledge and skills required for either employment or
further studies.
Theory and Practical Training
The students will get training in systematic sampling of scientific data, which will be
analyzed, interpreted and presented for a scientific audience.
ŵƉŚĂƐŝƐǁŝůůďĞƉƵƚŽŶƚŚĞƐƚƵĚĞŶƚ͛ƐĂďŝůŝƚŝĞƐto critically evaluate information, methods
and research results.
Assessment Methods
All courses have a final exam. Some of the courses may have additional assessments such as
laboratory reports/field reports, or smaller written assignments (see course descriptions for
details).
Minor adjustments may occur during the academic year, subject to the decision of the Dean
Natural Science Methods 4301
Learning outcome
After completion of the course, students should have the following qualifications regarding knowledge, skills, and
general competence:
· General knowledge of study design and data collection
· General knowledge of some important basic statistical methods and models and how to interpret their results
· Knowledge of the requirements and understanding of the limitations of statistical methods
· Ability to use existing literature and theory to critically evaluate analytical procedures used by others
. Ability to use existing literature and theory to design, implement and analyze your own research
· Ability to judge when to use more advanced analytical tools
· Ability to present relevant problems and analyses to specialists and the general public
Course Description
Data processing, statistical models and analyses and their fundamental characteristics will be discussed.
Emphasis is placed on the properties of the various models and analytical methods which are relevant to
environmental protection issues. Analytical methods and their close relationship to the design of field and
experimental studies will be stressed. With this information, the students should be able to validate and precisely
define approaches to problems, both methodically and analytically; plan their own studies; choose methods; carry
out the collection of appropriate data and execute analyses which are as relevant and precise as possible. Also
important will be the students’ ability to understand and evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the methods
and analyses employed in their own and other people’s scientific investigations. The exercises will involve the
practical use of design and analysis methods.
The format is a mixture of about 60 hrs lectures/seminars/discussions on methodological topics and practical
problem-based workshops using the R package.
The teaching is divided into modules in three separate weeks with intensive all-day coursework in the autumn
semester. A day starts with a lecture over one main topic. The lectures will whenever possible seek to be
concrete and problem oriented using relevant examples. The follow-up exercises are based on problem-solving of
real examples.
It is a must that the students are active during lectures and work with exercises, and also in presenting their own
graduate work.
Assessment Methods
Grades will be given for a written 3-hour final examination (grade A-E). Submitted exercises must be approved in
order to receive a passing grade.
Fakta om emnet
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Code 4301
ECTS 10.00
Level Master
Duration of this Course 1 semester: autumn
Language of instruction English
Prerequisites Students are assumed to have taken an introductory undergraduate (bio)statistics course at some
point in their careers. We will begin at a fairly basic level.
Alpine Biodiversity and Climatic Change 4502
Learning outcome
After completing the course, the students should have the following qualification regarding knowledge, skills, and
general competence:
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Have knowledge about how biodiversity and species richness can be quantified
Have knowledge about variation of species richness in Scandinavian mountains
Be able to quantify relationships between species richness and measured environmental and variables
Be able to perform numerical analyses of vegetation data
Be able to interpret results of ordination analyses
Be able to use plants as environmental variables by the use of plant indicator values
Course Description
The following topics will be covered:
- Present climate and temperature measurements
- Models of global climatic change
· Holocene vegetation and climate history
· Relation between forest limits and climate
· Phenology as an indicator of climatic change
· Ecological changes in alpine areas as a result of climatic change
· Methods in biodiversity research
· Measurement of biodiversity
· Variation in alpine biodiversity in relation to environmental variables
· Gradients in alpine plant diversity
· Changes in species richness and distribution patterns as a result recent of climatic change
Lectures, computing courses, seminars with student presentations and a mandatory report (essay). The
computing courses are mandatory. 36 h lectures, 20 h with computing exercises.
Assessment Methods
Group project (report), 25%; individual, written 4-hour final examination 75%
Fakta om emnet
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Code 4502
ECTS 10.00
Level Master
Prerequisites Previous studies (at least 2 years) at university level in the fields of Biology, Ecology, and/or
Geography. The course assumes basic skills equivalent to 4501 Alpine ecology
Basic statistical knowledge is an advantage.
Pollution and Microbiology 4327
Learning outcome
After completing the course, the students should have the following qualification regarding knowledge, skills, and
general competence:
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Knowledge about the importance of surfaces for chemical and microbial processes.
Ability to explain transport, retardation and degradation mechanisms of pollutants in the ground.
Familiarity with important organic and inorganic pollutants and their transformations in the ground.
An appreciation of the complexity and diversity of microbial life in normal and extreme environments.
Ability to explain the manner of the evolution of new metabolic functions.
Ability to understand the challenges to and limitations of microbial manipulation in bioremediation.
Ability to participate in planning and implementing projects that include understanding and management
of microbiological and pollution related aspects.
Course Description
Within the field of environmental microbiology the following matters will be addressed:
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Three-phase, multi-phase systems and surface chemistry in the ground
Transport of pollutants in the ground
Important organic and inorganic pollutants in the ground
The fundamental divisions and subdivision of microbial life
Trophic strategies
The genetic and biochemical diversity and variability of microbes
Microbial communities
Microbiological inactivation, sequestration and potentiation of pollutants
Examples of bioremediation in practice.
The main topics will be covered in lectures, seminars, tutorials and laboratory work (obligatory).
Assessment Methods
The final grade (A-F) will be based on a final written exam (5 hours).
Approved attendance at the laboratory course is required for the examination result to be approved.
Fakta om emnet
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Code 4327
ECTS 10.00
Level Master
Duration of this Course 1 semester: autumn (every second year)
Prerequisites Recommended prerequisites are microbiology, biochemistry and basic organic and inorganic
chemistry.
Ecological Methods 4311
Learning outcome
After completing the course, the students should have the following qualifications regarding knowledge, skills, and
general competence:
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be familiar with many different applications of various scientific ecological methods used in the field and
in the laboratory
can plan and execute different field and laboratory work, and to write and present the scientific findings
can communicate research topics orally and in writing
Course Description
Key theme:
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participation in field and/or laboratory work on research projects, or analyses of previously collected data
using established ecological techniques
familiarization with different field and/or laboratory ecological methods
write a report from the chosen topic/project with references to relevant scientific literature
The topics will be covered in lectures, in the laboratory and in the field. All the lectures, laboratory work and field
excursions are mandatory. The students are also requested to do independent studies of recent international
articles in the chosen topic/project. The projects will be carried out in groups.
Assessment Methods
A draft of the introduction and the method sections will be submitted to the teacher(s) half way through the
semester. A final written report will be submitted at the end of the semester and also presented orally for the class
and teachers. The course grade will be given on the basis of the submitted research report and the oral
presentation.
Fakta om emnet
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Code 4311
ECTS 10.00
Level Master
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Prerequisites Recommended prerequisites are biology, ecology and zoology.
Molecular Genetics 4326
Learning outcome
After completed the course, the student should have the following qualification regarding knowledge, skill and
general competence:
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Be familiar with central topics in genetics
Knowledge of basic principles of heredity and environmental impact
Knowledge of how molecular genetic analysis can be applied in the field of ecology
Knowledge of the newest methods used in genetics
Course Description
Key themes:
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The basic principles of hereditary characteristics
Coupling, recombination and genetic-mapping
Bacteria and viral systems
DNA replication and recombination, transcription and translation
Mutations
Recombinant DNA technology and genomics
Epigenetics
The topics will be covered in lectues, and there will be time to work on problems related to the various topics.
Assessment Methods
Written 4-hour final examination will constitute 100% of the grade.
Fakta om emnet
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Code 4326
ECTS 10.00
Level Master
Prerequisites Recommended prerequisites are cell biology and basic genetics.
Special Syllabus 4316
Learning outcome
Special syllabus will provide theoretical insight beyond the reference literature that is normally associated with a
Master's thesis.
After completing the projects, the students should have the following qualification regarding knowledge, skill and
general competence:
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have advanced theoretical knowledge or make a collection (plant or animals), within the chosen
academic field
be able to apply this knowledge to new areas
be able to analyze existing theories, methods and interpretations in the field
use relevant methods for research
analyze relevant academic research
master language and terminology and be able to communicate independent work
Course Description
Key theme:
The syllabus will normally include international articles or books that do not overlap the literature in the Master`s
thesis. Number of pages is specified by the supervisor and will normally range from 300 to 350 pages.
As a special syllabus it may also be appropriate to make a collection (plants or animals). The collection must be
built around a taxonomic, ecological, geographical or educational theme and include 80 objects per 5 credits.
This will primarily be independent study.
Assessment Methods
There will be an oral examination that will count for 100 % of the grade. The examination of the special syllabus
will be given a separate grade that will be entered on the diploma.
Fakta om emnet
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Code 4316
ECTS 10.00
Level Master
Duration of this Course 1 semester
Prerequisites The Special Syllabus will normally be close to the topic for the Master's Thesis. Recommended
prerequisites will therefore vary according to the Master’s thesis’ topic chosen by the student.
Master’s Thesis 4317
Learning outcome
After completing the Master` thesis, the student will gain insight into research methods and the organization of a
scientific project, and obtain experience from applying such methods independently to a chosen theme. Students
should themselves choose topics for the master's thesis, and will within this theme have the following qualification
regarding knowledge, skill and general competence:
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have advanced knowledge of relevant literature and theory
be able to apply this knowledge to new areas
knowledge of methods and procedures
be able to analyze existing theories, methods and interpretations in the field
relevant skills for the various research methods
be able to analyze and critically evaluate literature
be able to complete advanced research projects under supervision and in accordance with applicable
ethical standards
be able to analyze and critically evaluate results
master language and terminology and be able to communicate independent work both orally and in
writing
Course Description
The Master’s thesis may consist of work with various topics within the field of environmental science and
environmental health studies.
More detailed information may be obtained on the web (www.hit.no) or by contacting the academic staff at the
Department.
The Master’s thesis will be carried out independently or by two students working together. The study normally
counts for 60 ECTS.
In practice, the students will choose their supervisors during the first semester. A selection of possible subject
themes and supervisors will be presented for the students.
Assessment Methods
After the Master’s thesis has been submitted and evaluated, an oral defense of the thesis will be held. The grade
for the Master’s thesis may be adjusted after the oral examination, and a combined grade will be recorded on the
diploma.
The Master’s thesis will be evaluated individually by two sensors (one external and one internal). Supervisor(s)
will also attend the examination.
Fakta om emnet
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Code 4317
ECTS 60.00
Level Master
Duration of this Course 2 semester
Prerequisites Prerequisites will vary according to the Master’s thesis’ topic chosen by the student and which
courses the student will take during the first year. The students educational plan must be approved by the
supervisor before the student can choose topic for the Master's thesis. Students who will use genetic methods in
the master project, must take the course "4328 Applied Genetics".
University: University of Žilina
Faculty: University of Žilina Institute of High Mountain Biology, Tatranská Javorina
Course code: 6SP401
Course title: High mountain biology
Type, range and method of training activities: Training activities in form of lectures - 2
hours per week via full-time study including expert commentary of teaching issues, total of
26 hours per semester.
Training activities in form of field exercises - 4 hours per week via full-time study;
techniques of field ecological research in alpine vegetation zone, logistics of data collection,
total of 52 hours per semester.
Individual work of students is also required (study of the international scientific literature on
this subject).
-external foreign lecturers will also participate in teaching process: Prof. Vladimír G.
Onipchenko, DrSc; Prof. Renato Gerdol; Prof. Sandro Lovari; Prof. Dayle Clayton; Prof.
Ken Armitage
Number of credits: 10 ECTS
Recommended semester of study: 1st year 2nd semester of „Joint master program in
Ecology – specialisation in Alpine Ecology“
Level of study: Master
Prerequisites: Students must have completed mandatory courses and a minimum of one
elective course from 1st semester of master study programme - in Norway DEHS/TUC (Bø) „Joint master program in Ecology – specialisation in Alpine Ecology“
Conditions for completing the course:
 Final written examination for 5 credits – max. 100 points. Grade A is equivalent to
100-93 points, B: 92-85 points, C: 84-77 points, D: 76-69 points, E: 68-61 points,
FX: 60 or less points.
 Concept of individual research work for 5 credits: Introduction to a scientific
problem, literature (1 credit), field data collection (1 credit), concept of database
creation and statistical evaluation (1 credit), laboratory techniques (1 credit), final
concept presentation (1 credit)
Learning outcomes:
After completing this course, the students should have the following knowledge and skills:
- Fundamental knowledge on ecosystems of alpine vegetation level.
- Ability to use different techniques of biological research in alpine environment.
- Ability to determine the scientific problem.
- Field, laboratory and statistical education for final solving of research problem.
Detailed description of lectures:
- Mountain geology, a basis of ecosystem variability.
- Mountains – global and local climate.
- Mountains hydrobiology – hydrological effects and water resources, water cycle.
- Procaryotic life adaptation in the mountains , non- vascular plant life cycle, morphophysiological adaptations.
- Vascular plant adaptations, stratigraphy of vegetation zones.
- Invertebrates ecology and adaptations.
- Mountain vertebrate and human adaptation.
- Climate change effects – nutrients, colonisation, water regime, community structure.
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Human interference - pollution, destruction, protection, Agendas, research, National
Parks.
- Bioindikaton and biomonitoring
- Ecology of natural sources
Recommended literature:
Korner, Ch. Et al. 2003: Alpine plant life. Springer, Heidelberg, 344 pp., ISBN -3-54000347-9.
Quinn, J.A., 2008: Arctic and Alpine Biomes., ABC-CLIO, 240 pp., ISBN-13:
9780313340178
Winnie, J.,1996: High life: Animals of the Alpine World. Northland Pub., Cornell, 129 pp.,
ISBN – 0873586344
Onipchenko, V.G. 2004: Alpine ecosystems in the Northwest Caucasus. Springer Verlag, 407
pp.
Language of instructions: English
Comments:
Course assessment:
The total number of students assessed: it is the actual number of students assessed from
introducing the course until its latest update
A
B
C
D
E
FX
Lecturers:
Assoc. Prof. Marián Janiga
Rudolf Šoltés, PhD.
Jaroslav Solár, PhD.
MSc. Eva Gregušková
MSc. Natália Maximová
Date of the last revision: 14.4.2014
Approved by: Assoc. Prof. Marián Janiga
CURRICULUM
Course code: 6SP404
Course title: Strategies of mountain
conservation
Training activities in form of laboratory exercises - 3 hours per week via full-time study;
where students must apply theoretical knowledge, total of 39 hours per semester.
this subject).
Conditions for completing the course: Evaluation in two parts: 20% for protocols from
laboratory exercises and 80% from individual written exam - test (2 hours). Both parts must
be completed. The final grade is based on 100 – points assessment (20 points from
laboratory exercises and 80 points from written test).
The final grade A equals 100 - 93 points, B: 92 - 85 points, C: 84 - 77 points, D: 76 - 69
points, E: 68 - 61 points, FX: 60 or less.
Learning outcomes: After completing this course, the students will have the following
learning outcomes in terms of knowledge, skills and competences:
 To carry out enlightenment, educational and training activities in the field of Nature
protection.
 Cooperate with the competent authorities, organizations and other institutions in
solving the problems of nature protection and environmental problems.
 The prepare documents for the professional attitudes in the fields set up by the
relevant legal standards.
 Provide information, advisory services and methodological assistance in the field of
environmental education and provide cooperation with the professional and the laic
public.
 Improve the decision- making process of the bodies involved in the nature protection.
 Introduction: the definition of the subject, the beginnings of environmental
protection, basic terms, the degrees of nature protection, categories of protected
areas.
 Protection of the atmosphere: the atmosphere, emissions, imissions, deposition,
smog, acid rain, ozone, global warming.
 Water conservation: water as a source, pollution of fresh waters and pollution of
seas, waste water treatment.
 Soil protection: erosion, desertification, acidification, eutrophication, the impact of
agricultural activities, contamination.


Waste: treatment of (solid) waste in the mountains, recycling.
Animal protection: protection of animal in general, protection of significant species.
The rescue programs. Outline of selected problems of animal protection on examples
of critically endangered species (chamois, marmot, bear, wolf…). Legal rules and
reality.
 Plant protection: Plant protection in general (including history), the significant
species with recpect of nature protection (endemics, relicts). Plant protection in
Slovakia (legally rules and reality). Plant life in the mountains. The rescue programs.
Outline of selected problems of plant protection on examples of critically endangered
species. European important species. Invading species.
 Ecosystems: Sets of ecosystems (high altitudinal grasslands, wetlands, streams and
lakes…), dynamics and stability of ecosystems.
 Environmental protection tools: (EIA, Natura 2000, legal rule, environmental audit,
detection of old environmental loads), nature ecology in alpine habitats.
 Current knowledge and financial management of mountains national park, different
schemes and effect.
Christian K. 2003: Alpine Plant Life. Functional Plant Ecology of High Mountain
Ecosystem. Springer Verlag.
Dawson W. G. and Mercer B. W. 1986: Hazardous waste management John WILEY and
SONS
Singh R.B. 1992: Dynamics of mountain geosystems. New Delhi.
Worboys G., Francis, Wl., M Lockwood M., 2010: Connectivity conservation management:
A global guide (with particular reference to mountain connectivity conservation).
Washington.
Comments:
Course assessment:
A
B
C
D
E
FX
Lecturers:
Assoc. Prof. Marián Janiga
CURRICULUM
Course code: 6SP403
Course title: GIS – physical geography
of mountains
Training activities in form of laboratory exercises - 3 hours per week via full-time study;
where students must apply theoretical knowledge, total of 39 hours per semester.
this subject).
elective course from 1st semester of master study programme - in Norway DEHS/TUC (Bø) „Joint master program in Ecology – specialisation in Alpine Ecology“.
Conditions for completing the course: Evaluation in two parts: 20% for protocols from
laboratory exercises and 80% from individual written exam - test (2 hours). Both parts must
be completed. The final grade is based on 100 – points assessment (20 points from
laboratory exercises and 80 points from written test).
The final grade A equals 100 - 93 points, B: 92 - 85 points, C: 84 - 77 points, D: 76 - 69
points, E: 68 - 61 points, FX: 60 or less.
Learning outcomes:
 To teach students the foundations of vector editors and ways to transfer information
into GIS.
 General knowledge about GIS.
 Ability to work with vector editor of spatial data.
 Basic analysis of spatial data in GIS environment.
 Introduction: importance of geographical information systems - alphanumeric and
graphic information, the use of geographic information
 Fundamentals of computer graphics the technical means for computer graphics,
raster and vector graphics, softver resources for computer graphics standard GKS
 Mathematical foundations of computer graphics - geographical coordinates,
trimming of the drawing area. Modeling of the Earth's surface, spatial models.
 The concept of a geographic information system (GIS), alphanumerical and
graphical information, configuration information into the layers.
 The classification of the data in the GIS - topological links between data.
 Methods of recording and storing of data in GIS
 Infrastructure modeling - model of communication networks, nodes, sections of the
communications networks.
 Methods of collection and processing of information. Methods of analysis optimization of network problems, analysis of the areal and spatial models.
AutoCAD MAP – online help
ArcGIS Desktop– online help
Ormsby T. NapoleonE. Burke R. Groessl C. Bowden L. 2010. Getting to Know ArcGIS
Desktop. 604 pp. ISBN: 9781589482609
Comments:
Course assessment:
A
B
C
D
E
FX
Lecturers:
Jaroslav Solár, PhD.
CURRICULUM
Course code: 6SP402
Course title: Environmental Forensic
Training activities in form of laboratory exercises - 4 hours per week via full-time study,
where students have to apply theoretical knowledge in form of practical laboratory works,
totally 52 hours per semester.
this subject).
Number of credits: 5 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System)
elective course from 1st semester of master study programme - in Norway DEHS/TUC (Bø)„Joint master program in Ecology – specialisation in Alpine Ecology“.
Conditions for completing the course: The final grade is based on 100-points assessment.
The course is mandatory and students must participate in all laboratory courses and prepare
laboratory reports which will constitute 30% (30/100 points) of the final grade. Theoretical
knowledge is evaluated with 70 points – 2 written tests per 35 points. The final grade A
equals 100-93 points, B: 92-85 points, C: 84-77 points, D: 76-69 points, E: 68-61 points,
FX: 60 or less.
Learning outcomes: After completing this course, the students should have the following
knowledge and skills:
Molecular Biology:
- extension of fundamental knowledge of genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and their
use in forensic methods
- knowledge and use of various techniques for the genotyping of organisms
- theoretical and practical knowledge and skills in nucleic acid amplification, design of
amplification fragments, "lab on chip" analysis of biomacromolecules, separation of
nucleic acid fragments from the separation matrix, isolation of DNA fragments, ligation of
fragments, cloning of the fragments into plasmids, transformation of ligated products into
cells E. coli, miniprep isolation of plasmid DNA, restriction analysis of plasmid DNA,
maxiprep isolation of plasmid DNA, DNA sequencing by the Sanger sequencing method
using the apparatus LI-COR 4300, the use of software for processing of the sequencing
data
- practical application of the analysis of biological samples using microsatellite DNA by
the apparatus LI-COR 4300
- isolation of metagenomics DNA from environmental samples and its use to determine the
diversity of bacterial DNA by T-RFLP analysis
Analytical chemistry:
- knowledge and skills in basic analytical-chemical approaches and their application in
forensic analysis of environmental samples
- knowledge of basic chemical rules, equations and constants and their use in chemical
calculations
- use of basic gravimetric analyses in precipitation reactions, acid-base balance and its
application in titration reactions
- theoretical and practical knowledge of basic electrochemistry, spectroscopy, basic
separation techniques, chromatography and electrophoretic separation
- application of analytical procedures in evaluation of environmental biotic and abiotic
samples
Brief sylabus of course: The mission of the course Environmental Forensic (forensic
methods in ecology) is the application of the most modern techniques and knowledge of
molecular biology and analytical chemistry in the analyses of environmental samples. The
course is divided into two consistent units (Molecular Biology and Analytical chemistry).
I. Molecular biology:
1. Introduction to molecular biology, DNA molecule, chromosomes and nuclear DNA,
mitochondrial and chloroplast DNA
2. DNA replication, trasnscription, translation
3. DNA polymorphism, methods in wildlife forensic DNA analysis, DNA isolation, DNA
quantification, Restriction fragments length polymorphism
4. DNA cloning (TA cloning, restriction nucleases, ligation, transformation), DNA
sequencing, DNA polymerase chain reaction, RAPD, AFLP
5. RNA structure and isolation, Reverse transcriptase reaction, real time PCR, Northern
blottings, cDNA cloning, expression of genes, heterological expression in plants
6. Proteomics
7. Laboratory practise:
a. DNA isolation from plant or animal tissues, measurement of DNA
concentrations
b. PCR
c. Agarose gel electrophoresis
d. Isolation of DNA fragments from the gel
e. Ligation of fragments into plasmids
f. Transformation of E.coli
g. Miniprep isolation of plasmid DNA
h. Maxiprep isolation of plasmid DNA
i. DNA sequencing by Sanger methods
j. Computer Analysis of DNA
k. Analysis of metagenomic DNA
l. Explant culture and genetic transformation of plant
II. Analytical chemistry:
1. Introduction
a. A brief introduction to analytical chemistry and analytical methods and their
place and importance in botany, ecology and alpine ecology, especially.
2. Chemical equilibrium
a. Review of chemical equilibrium and equilibrium constants.
b. Basic chemical rules.
3. Gravimetric analysis
a. Introduction to gravimetric analysis and solubility products with links to
precipitation reactions.
4. Titration
a. Introduction to titrations with links to acid-base chemistry.
5. Electrochemistry
a. Introduction to electrochemistry with links to oxidation-reduction reactions.
6. Spectroscopy
a. Introduction to spectroscopy with descriptions of absorption, emission,
scattering, and links to the Beer-Lambert Law and advanced examples.
7. Separations
a. Introduction to separation science with basic descriptions of partitioning,
extractions, chromatography, and electrophoresis.
8. Analytical chemistry in soil research
9. Analytical chemistry in water research
10. Analytical chemistry in air research
11. Analytical chemistry in plant substrates
12. Analytical chemistry in animal substrates, conclusion (final useful remarks and hints)
Adrian M.T. Linacre, Shanan S. Tobe: Wildlife DNA Analysis: Applications in Forensic
Science, Wiley-Blackwell, 2013, 342 pages, ISBN 978-0-4706-6596-1
Ausubel F. M., Brent R., Kingston R. E., Moore D. D., Seidman J.G., Smith J.A., Struhl K.:
Short Protocols in Molecular Biology, Wiley-Blackwell, 5th edition, 2002, ISBN 0-0-47125092-9
A Modern Analytical Chemistry Chemistry For The Ib Diploma © Cambridge University
Press 2011, online:
http://sacademy.cbv.ns.ca/staff/bdalzell/C2I/Owen/source_data/options/Options_A.pdf
David T Harvey: Modern Analytical Chemistry, 816 pages, Hardcover Press, 2000, ISBN 0–
07–237547–7
Douglas A. Skoog, Donald M. West, F. James Holler, Stanley R. Crouch: Fundamentals of
Analytical Chemistry (with CD-ROM and InfoTrac), Hardcover Press, 2003, ISBN: 0-03035523-0
Sambrook J., Russell D.W.: The Condensed Protocols from Molecular Cloning: A laboratory
Manual, CSHL Press, 2006, 800 pages, ISBN 0-87969-772-5.
Watson J.D., Baker T.A., Bell S.P., Gann A., Levine M., Losick R.: Molecular Biology of the
Gene, CSHL Press, 5th edition, 2004, 732 pages, ISBN 0-321-22368-3
Wink M.: An Introduction to Molecular Biotechnology: Fundamentals, Methods and
Applications. Wiley-Blackwell; 2nd edition (June 20, 2011), 636 pages, ISBN-10:
3527326375
Language of the course: English
Comments:
Course assessment: The total number of students assessed: it is the actual number of
students assessed from introducing the course until its latest update
A
B
C
D
E
FX
Lectors:
Assoc. prof. Ján Kraic
Daniel Mihálik, PhD.
Michaela Havrlentová, PhD.
Katarína Ondreičková, PhD.
Martina Hudcovicová, PhD.
Marcela Gubišová, PhD.
MSc. Lenka Klčová
Approved by: Assoc. prof. Marián Janiga
CURRICULUM
Course code: 6SP405
Course title: Special syllabus
Type, range and method of training activities: Training activities in form of seminars - 6
hours per week via full-time study associated with professional consultations with supervisor
of Master thesis, total of 78 hours per semester.
Individual work of students is required (study of the international scientific literature on this
subject).
Type and method of education will be determined by the thesis supervisor.
The course will provide theoretical knowledge beyond the scope of the reference literature,
according to the choice of supervisor with regard to the topic of final thesis.
Ecology – specialisation in Alpine Ecology“.
Conditions for completing the course: There will be an oral examination that will count for
100 % of the grade.
Learning outcomes: Special syllabus will provide theoretical insight beyond the reference
literature that is normally associated with a Master's thesis. The students should have the
following qualification regarding knowledge, skill and general competence:
 be able to analyze existing theories, methods and interpretations
 be able to apply knowledge to new areas
 use relevant methods for research
 master language and terminology and be able to communicate independent work
Detailed description of lectures: Course content will consist of seminars, which the student
will be required to attend.
The course is focused on the individual study of extending literature related to the final
thesis.
The syllabus will normally include professional articles or textbooks which concern the
subject material addressed in the master’s thesis.
Compulsory number of pages and curriculum will be planned and specified in consultation
with the supervisor.
Recommended literature: Determined by the supervisor.
Comments:
Course assessment:
A
B
C
D
E
FX
Lecturers:
Daniel Mihálik, PhD.
supervisors of diploma thesis
CURRICULUM
Course code: 6SP501
Course title: Master thesis I
of Master's thesis, total of 78 hours per semester.
Individual work of students is also required (study of the scientific literature on this subject).
Recommended semester of study: 2nd year 3rd semester of „Joint master program in
Prerequisites: Students must successfully complete all mandatory courses and a minimum of
one elective course at Telemark University College (DEHS/TUC) and all mandatory courses
and a minimum two elective course at University of Zilina in the first year of „Joint master
study program in Ecology – specialisation in Alpine Ecology“
Students must have at least 30 ECTS from 1st semester (TUC) and 30 ECTS from 2nd
semester (UZ) in the first year of the master's programme.
Conditions for completing the course: The continuous control of activity on regular
control seminars in which student demonstrates progress towards meeting the aims in the
Master thesis.
Final evaluation: presentation (ppt) - "theoretical and methodological introduction to the
Master thesis," - student points to the importance of the study, hypotheses, aims and methods
to be used and the stage of field research.
Seminars: mandatory active participation
The final grade is calculated as the arithmetic mean of continuous controls and presentation
of the theoretical and methodological introduction to the Master thesis. If the evaluation of
"theoretical and methodological introduction to the Master thesis" is FX, then an overall
evaluation is FX.
Learning outcomes: Demonstrate the ability to work independently with scientific literature
and use acquired knowledge in the final thesis. Adoption of the generally binding rules
governing formal and content editing of Master thesis.
The main output will be "theoretical and methodological introduction to the Master thesis."
After passing this course students acquire the ability to: analyze existing theories, methods
and interpretations, apply acquired knowledge, apply relevant research methods, discuss and
present.
 Topic assignment of the Master thesis.
 Students learn the basic principles of scientific work, with different ways to search
the biological literature, with the composition of biology work, with citation norms
and with indexes Current Contents, Biological Abstracts, Science Citation Index,
Ecological Abstracts, etc.
 Data collection in the field by means of suitably chosen methodology.
 Presentation of the partial output.
Recommended literature: Specialized scientific literature according to the subject of final
thesis.
Comments: It is preferred, if the Master`s Thesis is part of ongoing research projects. The
students choose to complete this course in one of the cooperating institutions (TUC/DEHS or
UZ) depending on the focus of their master’s thesis.
Course assessment:
A
B
C
D
E
FX
Lecturers:
VUVB ZU/DEHS Telemark University College
CURRICULUM
Course code: 6SP502
Course title: Master thesis II + thesis
defense
of Master's thesis, total of 78 hours per semester.
Individual work of students is also required (study of the scientific literature on this subject).
As the final thesis the original scientific studies in peer-reviewed journals may be accepted.
The condition is proof of its acceptance.
Recommended semester of study: 2nd year 4th semester of „Joint master program in
Prerequisites: Students must have successfully completed course Master thesis I (6SP501).
Conditions for completing the course: The continuous control of activity on regular
control seminars in which student demonstrates progress towards meeting the aims in the
Master thesis.
Final evaluation: presentation (ppt) - "Interpretation of results of the Master thesis",
hypotheses, aims and methods, that were used.
Seminars: mandatory active participation
The final grade is calculated as the arithmetic mean of continuous controls and presentation
and and evaluation of the thesis defense. If the evaluation of "Interpretation of results of the
Master thesis" is FX, then an overall evaluation is FX.
Learning outcomes: The result of this course is finalisation of final thesis in the prescribed
form and content and in the required number of copies, in which the student demonstrates
the ability to work independently with scientific literature and analyze the collected data. The
student justifies the chosen methodology, and selected forms of data analysis. Final thesis
provides evidence of the learner's abilities to formulate scientific results and the ability to
defend its conclusions in discussion with the results of other studies. Student is required to
successfully defend the final thesis in form of presentation before the committee.
 Laboratory work
 Statistical analysis of collected data
 Evaluation and results processing
 Discussion
 Presentation and defense of the Master thesis
Recommended literature: Specialized scientific literature according to the subject of final
thesis.
Comments: It is preferred, if the Master`s Thesis is part of ongoing research projects.
Students graduate this course at the institution (TUC/UZ), where they completed course
Master thesis I (6SP501).
Course assessment:
A
B
C
Lecturers:
VUVB ZU/DEHS Telemark University College
D
E
FX

Joint Master`s Programme in Alpine Ecology

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