Biology for Teaching 1

The course comprises two modules, each of 15 ECTS cr. Module 1: Floristics and Faunistics, 15 ECTS cr The course deals with different types of identification guides, and techniques for excursion, collection, preparation and inventory, as well as identification exercises. The construction of determination keys, botanical and zoological terms and concepts are treated in lessons and laboratory sessions. Some plant families and the most species-rich animal groups are presented as well as a selection of representative species and groups. Some instruction takes place through excursions in the field. In floristics the most common vascular plants, mosses and lichens are presented in their various environments as well as characteristic species of different plant communities and indicator species for identification of plant communities. Faunistics involves short excursions in the university vicinity, over-night excursions to other places. In addition to field excursions, students learn about species and groups through digital quizzes. In addition to field excursions, students learn about species and groups through digital quizzes. Students develop their ability to write reports on research results through inventory and sampling exercises and deepen their knowledge of different plant and animal species and communities, biological diversity and the ecological demands of species. Theoretical biology content is also studied through practical exercises relevant to education and an observation in school. Excursions and outdoor teaching are discussed in terms of theories of outdoor pedagogy.   Module 2: Zoology, 15 ECTS cr The module deals with animal taxonomy and life processes, and provides a survey of the development of life on earth and the origin of eukaryotes and metazoans. The main animal groups are treated in terms of anatomy, phylogeny and systematic classification. The general principles for the structure of tissues, organs and organ systems with function and regulation in isolation and in interaction as well as the significance of homeostasis are treated. Dissection is performed on selected representative animals. Education theories on how children's perceptions, difficulties and motivation affect their learning are treated. The module also includes sex, coexistence and health education as well as how digital tools can be used as a teaching resource.