Zoology
The course reviews and describes the main vertebrate and invertebrate groups, from protozoa to mammals, emphasizing their form and function, ecology, evolution, adaptations and diversity. The course also includes the evolution and comparative physiology of respiratory, circulatory and osmoregulatory systems; thermoregulation and sense organs; co-evolution of hosts and parasites/pathogens. The course will be supplemented with a practical exercise.
The topics of the lectures include:
- Terminology and nomenclature
- General characteristics and taxonomy of the main groups of animals.
The practical exercise will include dissection of a fish.
Upon completion of the course, the student:
Knowledge:
- Has broad knowledge and understanding of the ecology, evolution, and current status of the diversity of advanced invertebrates and vertebrates
- Has knowledge of the phylogeny, taxonomy and general characteristics of the major organism groups
- Is familiar with different theories and methods within the study of systematics and phylogeny of animals
- Can update their knowledge in the field of advanced invertebrate and vertebrate biology
Skills:
- Can apply scientific knowledge and results in the field of organismal research and biodiversity
- Can evaluate and refer to academic resources and present scientific findings using scholarly forms of communication
- Can approach problems and make decisions regarding vertebrate biology based on scientific knowledge
- Will develop skills of observation, interpretation and recording of biological material
General competence:
- Can discuss and exchange knowledge and opinions with others within the community of the field, promoting good practice
Theory
Compulsory
Compound assessment
Written school exam (SK): 4 hours written school exam. Norwegian grading system A-F. Comprises 100 % of the final grade.
Compulsory participation (OD): obligatory participation in one practical exercise.
Simple calculator.
Generating answers using ChatGPT or similar artificial intelligence and submitting them wholly or partially as one’s own response is considered cheating.