Biodiversity Literacy

Applications closed

Applications for this project are currently closed.

The Biodiversity Literacy project aims to:

create a database to monitor biodiversity changes in and around the estate of the University of St Andrews
determine how the University’s biodiversity strategy is impacting on wildlife
create a natural history culture at St Andrews and build basic environmental literacy skills in students.

Students will be introduced to natural history by identifying and monitoring birds, plants and insects in and around St Andrews. The project will train students in field identification, survey and analysis techniques, and scientific communication.

Students from any academic discipline are welcome to apply, and most are relevant.

No prior interest or preparation is needed. Initially, the project will need some students experienced in bird, plant and insect identification. Students with experience in data collection and management methods will also be helpful. However, all that is required is a desire to learn the language of biodiversity and a desire to learn how to pass this knowledge on most effectively to others.
Students working on this project will use the following methods and technologies:
- field experience with more experienced naturalists to learn how to identify bird, plant and common insect species
- point count, line transect and distance survey methodologies
- citizen science and survey design
- data analysis, mapping and visualisation
- scientific communication and public understanding of science
- urban ecology
- nature deficit and mental health
- mobile app design and large data management.
This project will be assessed through the following coursework:
- Species identification field tests – 50%
- Survey, blog or public outreach – 30%
- Poster – 10%
- Research Diary – 10%

Biodiversity Literacy

Applications closed

Candidate eligibility

Methods and technologies

Assessment