Fundamentals of Ecological Restoration

Learn more about this course:

What will I learn?

The course will take a pragmatic and optimistic approach, discussing the concepts and visions of ecological restoration, rewilding, conservation and sustainable development. The causes and drivers of ecological degradation and loss of biodiversity will be examined so that they may be addressed effectively.

Evidence-based conservation will be integral to the course. Strategies to identify restoration priorities using concepts such as biodiversity hotspots, keystone species and planetary boundaries will be explored. Ecological restoration has global importance and so international examples will be central to illustrate the ideas.

Natural systems are astonishingly complex and are interconnected in varied and subtle ways. They will be investigated and illustrated through the concept of tipping points and various models of stability and resilience.

In order to effectively conduct a restoration project, three broad things need to happen:

• We need to know what is there.
• We need to carry out the most appropriate intervention.
• We need to know how the ecosystem has changed and will change.

Surveying and monitoring and the various methods and techniques of developing suitable programmes, will be an important part of the work of this course. Examples of different projects will be used as case studies throughout.

How will I learn?

The course will be delivered online via our virtual learning environment, Moodle. It will involve problem-based learning and case-study analysis activities that are of contemporary relevance, providing you with an opportunity to apply your learning to your own and other real-world contexts.

A series of pre-recorded short videos will direct your thinking and you will be supported to develop your analytical and creative skills, exploring viable, inclusive and equitable solutions to current global issues. Your communication and interactivity skills will also be developed through cooperative peer-learning activities.

How will I be assessed?

There are two assessments and a requirement to contribute to online discussions to complete this course:

1. A policy briefing note to evaluate and derive the characteristics of successful restoration projects at both species- and landscape-scale; and 
2. Design a survey proposal for a successful restoration project, justifying why it should be adopted.

By the end of the course what will I be able to do?

• Debate a rationale for ecological restoration.
  
  
• Evaluate a range of ecological restoration projects at both species- and landscape- scale deriving the principles for successful interventions.
  
  
• Learners will design a survey programme that would support successful restoration for an identified project.

How long does the course last for and how much time will I need to spend on it each week?

Course duration:

• The course is self-paced, allowing you to progress at your own speed. 
• You have 52 weeks from the time of enrolment to complete the course. 

Typical completion time: The course is generally designed to be completed in 12 weeks. 

Weekly time commitment: To complete a course in 12 weeks, expect to spend 2-3 hours per week on directed online learning activities and at least one day per week dedicated to independent learning and assessment work. 

Why is SRUC a good place to study this micro-credential?

• Expertise: Our staff have real world experience of working in ecological restoration and wildlife conservation.
  
  
• Theory and Application: All our courses blend theory with practice to ensure you are learning skills you can put to use in your work.
  
  
• Student satisfaction: Our wildlife and conservation courses received 100% satisfaction in 2023 from our learners.

Who will be teaching me?

James Banks

James has been involved in many forms of practical ecological restoration work for over 30 years and directs the world-leading Peatland Assessment and Restoration Course in association with NatureScot. The opportunities offered by this Micro-credential course are really exciting and James is committed to supporting learners in their journeys as they develop authentic skills and knowledge.

James has been a lecturer at SRUC since 2021 following work as an Ecologist, Biodiversity Consultant and Wilderness Guide. He is a member of the Society for Ecological Restoration and the International Peatland Society. James has worked as an Engagement Ranger in Glencoe for the National Trust for Scotland and as a Senior Tutor for the Field Studies Council. An enthusiastic educator, he has an extensive Environmental Science teaching and examining background and loves learning from his students.