Overview
An introductory survey of the evolution and diversity of animal life. Essential biological principles are illustrated using examples from New Zealand fauna, issues of environmental, social or economic importance, and cutting-edge research developments at the University of Otago.
Are you fascinated by animals and how they survive in a constantly changing world? BIOL112 will take you on a journey into the amazing diversity of animal life. You'll uncover the remarkable adaptations and diverse lifestyles of animals and explore how animals navigate hostile environments, evade predators and secure resources for growth and reproduction. But it's not just about survival; you will gain insights into behaviour and how animals interact with each other, explore ways animals sense the world around them and discuss how natural selection has shaped the diversity in animal life we see. You’ll also explore real-world issues such as environmental conservation and the social impact of animal science, all while getting a taste of cutting-edge research happening right here at Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka.
As part of this journey, we begin discussions on how mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge systems) and te ao Māori (the Māori worldview) contribute to our understanding of animals and ecosystems in Aotearoa. These perspectives are vital in shaping a uniquely New Zealand framework for studying and protecting biodiversity.
BIOL112 sets you up for success in Zoology and related fields—it's a prerequisite for most 200-level Zoology papers. There are optional field trips to places like Orokonui Ecosanctuary and OPERA (Otago Peninsula Eco Restoration Alliance), and we can connect you with local volunteering opportunities if you want to get some hands-on experience.
Join a vibrant department of learners and researchers passionate about animals, ecosystems, and the future of our planet. Your adventure into animal life starts here.
About this paper
| Paper title | Animal Biology |
|---|---|
| Subject | Biology |
| EFTS | 0.15 |
| Points | 18 points |
| Teaching period | Semester 2 (On campus) |
| Domestic Tuition Fees ( NZD ) | $1,318.20 |
| International Tuition Fees | Tuition Fees for international students are elsewhere on this website. |
- Recommended Preparation
- CELS 191 or HUBS 191 or PTWY 131
- Schedule C
- Science
- Contact
- Teaching staff
Academic Convener: Professor Robert Poulin
Course Co-ordinator: Dr Keith King
Course Lecturers:
Dr Erin Damsteegt
Dr Sheri Johnson
Associate Professor Mark Lokman
Dr Jenny Jandt
Professor Robert Poulin
Dr Paul Szyszka
Dr Keith King- Paper Structure
LECTURES
This paper covers seven modules:
- Animal Diversity (6 lectures)
- Animal Evolution (6 lectures)
- Animal Physiology (5 lectures)
- Animal Nervous Systems (5 lectures)
- Hormones and Reproduction (4 lectures)
- Animal Behaviour (5 lectures)
- Animal Associations (5 lectures)
In addition to the lectures, there are question and answer sessions, assessment-related workshops, three guest lectures and an information session.
LABORATORIES (PRACTICALS)
There are 6 laboratories (practicals). The laboratory topics are listed below:
- Animal Ethics and Diversity
- Animal Evolution
- Animal Physiology, Nervous systems and Hormones and Reproduction - Dogfish dissection
- Animal Physiology, Nervous systems and Hormones and Reproduction - Possum dissection
- Animal Behaviour - Beetle behaviour and ethograms
- Animal Associations and Population Modelling
- Teaching Arrangements
BIOL 112 is comprised of 37 lectures (including an introductory lecture), seven question and answer sessions, four 1-hour (assessment-related) workshops, four seminars/information sessions and six 3-hour practical laboratories. Attendance at laboratories is compulsory.
- Textbooks
BIOLOGY: A Global Approach - 12th Edition, Campbell et al. 2021 (ISBN: 978-1-292-34163-7).
- Graduate Attributes Emphasised
- Lifelong learning, Scholarship, Communication, Critical thinking, Ethics, Information literacy, Research, Self-motivation, Teamwork.
View more information about Otago's graduate attributes. - Learning Outcomes
Students who successfully complete this paper will:
- Appreciate and demonstrate the importance of thinking scientifically
- Understand the diversity of the animal kingdom from evolutionary, functional and interactive perspectives
- Describe the biological principles addressed in this paper as they relate to these specific perspectives
- Identify the role of Zoological research in the discipline as it relates to the specific perspectives and biological processes discussed in this paper
- Appreciate and demonstrate the practical skills required to work effectively and safely in a biological laboratory
- Analyse issues logically, bearing in mind all viewpoints, and make informed decisions
- Appreciate the links between disciplines
- Develop awareness that current knowledge can be limited, uncertain and contested
- Be aware of the ethical, cultural, social and economic contexts of native animals and introduced animals in New Zealand
- Begin to develop intellectual independence and foster a commitment to lifelong learning
- Appreciate the need to communicate information and arguments effectively using written and oral skills
- Understand and demonstrate how to work as part of a team
- Know how to access information about biological issues
- Develop confidence and competency in the use of numeracy in everyday situations