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Plant Ecology
Plant Ecology 100 Hours Certificate Course
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Learn About Plant Ecology
Plant Ecology course online
Understand plants and apply your knowledge practically with this Plant Ecology online course from ADL
Acquire a deeper understanding on the principles of plant ecology, why plants are the way they are, their relationships to other plants and living beings, how they developed in evolution and which factors determine their growth and survival.
Apply that understanding to horticulture and the cultivation of plants, develop a new view on the plant world.
Course Information
Other Categories
Lessons
Lesson Structure:Â Plant Ecology BSC302
There are 8 Lessons:
1 Â Introductory Ecology
- Definitions for ecology, ecosystems
- Constituents of an ecosystem
- Ecological concepts
- Interrelationships between climate, soil and living things (consumers, decomposers)
- The food web
- Habitat and niche
- Biomes
- Terminology
2 Â Plant Communities
- Open and closed plant communities
- Habitat types
- Location and characteristics of biomes
- Semi natural vegetation
- Competition
- Succession of plant communities
- Community stability and equilibrium
- Environmental stress
- Edge effectsTerminology
3 Â Plants and their Environment
- Development, structure and function
- Plant modifications: functional adaptions
- Environmental factors: light, temperature, fires, wind
- Monitoring abiotic factors
- Introduction to Environmental assessment
- Pre purchase inspection of a site
- Background data
- Flora and fauna surveys
- Open space management plans
- Compliance with lisencing conditions
- Detection of pollutants
- Use of plants
- Remediation of a polluted site
4 Â Plants, Soils & Climate
- Natural conditions andplants distribution
- Climate classification
- Examples: climate in the UK, climate in Australia
- Meteorological data
- Plant distribution
- Geographic location
- Rainfall
- Evapouration
- Effective rainfall
- Circulation features
- The walker circulation
- Southern oscillation
- El nino
- La Nina
- GAIA theory
- Carbon dioxide cycle
- Wind descriptions
- Soil problems
- Erosion
- Salinity
- Soil structure decline and soil compaction
- Soil acidification
- Build up of dangerous chemicals
5 Â Plant Adaptations to Extreme Environments
- Ecological groups of plants: hydrophyte, xerophyte, mesophyte, halophyte
- Xeromorphy
- Common environmental problems when growing plants: foliage burn, pollution, lack of water, frost, shade, humidity, temperature, wind, etc
- Desert landscapes
- Xeriscapes
- Coastal gardens
- Water plant environments
- Greenhouse plants
6 Â Manipulating Plant Environments
- Controlling environmental conditions
- Tolerance levels for different plants
- Matching plants with their environment
- Managing light
- Managing water
- Protective structures
- Windbreaks
- Tree guards
7 Â Environmental Conservation
- Water pollution
- Soil pollution
- Atmospheric pollution
- Effects of horticulture
- Pesticides
- Fertilisers
- Deforestation problemsLoss of agricultural land
- Loss of biodiversity
- Environmental weeds
- The greenhouse effect
- Other environmental problems affecting plant communities
- Greenhouse gases
- Ozone depletion
- Introduction to recycling
8 Â Environmental Organisations, Assessment and Funding
- Plant conservation
- Conservation of individual species
- Conservation organisations
- Conservation funding
Learning Goals
Learning Goals:Â Plant Ecology BSC302
- Define the term ecosystem
- Explain the importance of plants as energy producers within ecosystems
- Explain basic ecological principles
- Define the terms open and closed plant communities, semi-natural vegetation, dominant species, climax association.
- Describe the effects of plant association and competition on the succession of plants
- Describe how plant communities respond to environmental stresses.
- Explain how the development, structure and function of an organism depends on the interaction of that organism with its environment
- Describe the effects of a range of abiotic environmental factors on plant growth and development
- Explain the importance of monitoring abiotic environmental factors
- Describe plant modifications to withstand extreme environmental conditions
- Describe the weather and climate in a particular region.
- Relate plant distribution, growth and natural selection to soil, geography, weather and climate.
- State how soil, geography, weather and climate affect the horticulturists’ selection of plants for any specific growing location.
- Evaluate the use of meteorological records in relation to plant growth and development
- Define the terms xerophyte, hydrophyte and halophyte
- Describe the structure and function of xerophytes, hydrophytes and halophytes
- Describe how xerophytes, hydrophytes and halophytes can be utilised in garden or landscape situations
- Describe the significance of xeromorphy in temperate zone plants and its importance in the garden or landscape situation.
- Evaluate the methods by which environmental conditions can be manipulated to improve the growth and development of plants
- State the factors affecting the choice of plants for garden or landscape sites with extreme conditions
- Assess the value of using protective structures to grow plant
- Describe the sources and nature of pollutants and possible effects on plants
- Describe how the environment may be affected by a range of horticultural practices
- Explain how planning, environmental assessment and impact analysis may contribute to the conservation process
- State the major sources of grant aide available to support environmental conservation on horticultural sites
- Review the role of national and international organisations in the conservation of plants and gardens.
- Understand the nature and principles of plant ecology and apply that understanding to the cultivation of plants.
Practical (Set Tasks)
Examinations
Program Summary
More Information
Excerpt From The Course
PLANT DISTRIBUTION Plant distribution is greatly dependant on local natural conditions. In different regions land plants face different problems. In some regions they are subject to periodic frost, drought, flood, heat or other extreme weather condition. A combination of these conditions defines plants’ distribution. Climate and weather depends on distribution of heat from the sun and its transport by winds and Ocean currents, seasonality of the heat distribution, and the rainfall pattern for the region. The same factors influence selection of plants to grow in horticulture sites, especially if resources for environmental factors management are limited (i.e. big open sites). Selection of right plants for the local environmental conditions greatly reduces maintenance costs. Geographic Location Geographical longitude and latitude, mountains attitude and orientation affect sunlight patterns, seasonality, and climate and weather of any particular location. In very general terms, the farther place is from the equator the lower is the average annual temperature, the shorter are winter days and the longer are summer days. Average annual temperature is also decreasing with altitude that leads to forming relatively similar communities in Arctic tundra and Alpine tundra. Large areas with different conditions can serve as impenetrable borders for plants and other biological species. Over period of time these borders such as oceans, mountains, deserts etc. isolate plant populations from each other and cause difference in species composition between plant communities in similar isolated habitats. People can overcome this limitation and introduce plants from overseas into localities with suitable environmental conditions. A couple of spectacular examples of successful usage of overseas plants in new locations is culture of Coffee tree, African plant, in South America, and Cocoa, South American plant, in Africa. Rainfall There are four major points to consider regarding rainfall. These are:
- Distribution – This refers to when the rain falls. An inch (25mm) of rainfall in a normally moist site during winter conditions will not have the same significance as the same amount falling in a normally drier site, or in summer.
- Variability – Some areas have very consistent rainfall, others do not. Two sites may have the same average annual rainfall, but there may be quite different variation around that average at each site. For example, each site may have an average annual rainfall of 1000mm (40 inch) but one may vary between 250 and 2000mm from year to year, while the other may only vary between 750 and 1300mm from year to year.
- Frequency – This is a measure of how often it rains, and can be important in determining the size of water storages. For example where there is a large interval between periods of rain then water storages (e.g. farm tanks) will have to be larger than for sites where rain falls frequently.
- Intensity – This is the total annual rainfall divided by the number of wet days (days exceeding 0.2mm of rain). This is very important in terms of run off. In areas of high intensity rainfall run-off is generally high, and consequently the % of water infiltrating into the soil is low in comparison to areas with low intensity rainfall. Erosion can be a major problem in high intensity rainfall areas, while getting sufficient run off to boost water storages can be a problem in low intensity areas.
Generally, in Australia, southern areas such as Southern Victoria and South-West Western Australia have low intensity, with intensity much higher along the eastern coastline, and in particular the northern part of the continent. Evaporation Evaporation is the loss of water as water vapour. It is part of the cycling of water process (see Water Cycle diagram below) It increases as temperatures increase, humidity drops and winds increase. It can be measured by determining the amount of water evaporated from a free water surface exposed in a pan. In countries, such as Australia, where surface water storage is extremely important for agricultural purposes, evaporation is very significant. As with other climatic data maps or tables of evaporation data are generally readily available.
Assessment
Assessment is based on a combination of completing all assignments and sitting for a final short one and a half hour exam, in your own location.
If you don’t cope well with exams then you may elect to undertake a project instead. This is a popular option.
In addition, most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson placed before the assignment. This is an opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge and skills and practical experience. This ADL feature is an added bonus not found at most online schools. Set Tasks are not required for assessment.Â
Some courses also have optional Self-Tests which are available on our online learning platform. These are not available by correspondence or by USB, and do not form part of your overall grade.
How our courses work
- Choose Your Learning Method
You choose how you would like to receive your course material, i.e., Online, USB or Correspondence. The choice is yours. You may also work on online or offline. - Tutor Allocation
Every student is assigned their own dedicated tutor who is an expert in their subject area. They provide as much or as little individual contact as you require. You can contact your tutor whenever you need – your hours are not limited. - Feedback and Assignments
Tutor Feedback is an essential component in helping you understand the subject matter. Tutor feedback is given in the form of notes written on the assignment. We encourage you to contact your Tutor where help with clarification and understanding of course material may be required.
Your assignments are located at the end of each lesson. You submit them for marking whenever you are ready. There is no time limit.  - Set Tasks and Self-Tests
Most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson before for the assignment. This is where you get the opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge, skills and practical experience. Many modules also have short Self-Tests. - Exams
Once all assignments have been completed you may then elect to sit for a one and half hour exam in your own location. If you prefer not to take the exam you do have the option to undertake a project instead.
Once the exam or project part of the course is completed, your Certificate is then processed. Please allow approximately 4 weeks for this. - Design Your Own Qualification
ADL offers students the flexibility to self-design their own qualification – bundling together a combination of 100-hour modules into a qualification higher than a certificate.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.
General
Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.
Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.
Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.
Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.
Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.
Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.
Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.
Enrolment
Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.
Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.
Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.
Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.
Assessment
Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.
Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.
Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –
Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.
Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.
Qualifications
Q. What qualification will I receive?
A. For individual modules, you would be awarded a Certificate endorsed by TQUK (Training Qualifications, UK), providing you complete all assignments and the exam. If you just want to complete only the assignments and not sit for the exam or finish a Project, then a Letter of Achievement would be awarded. For more details on qualifications available please click here.
Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?
A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.
Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.
Tutors
Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.
Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.
Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.
Career Options
What's Included
What your tuition fees include
- All Course Material via Online, USB or Correspondence
- Assignments Marked
- Professional Tutor Feedback
- Set Tasks - Practical Exercises to help you develop skills
- Self-Tests – multiple choice questions at the end of lessons in most modules
- Unlimited Personal Tutor Support – via our student classroom
- Committed and Friendly Admin Support – vital to your success
- All ADL Exam or Project fees (exception RHS exams)
- Qualification Certificate
- Official Transcript with assignment grades
- Student Manual
Plus FREE
- Academic Writing course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Critical Thinking course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Job Seekers Careers Guide
- Study Tips on How To Study Better
- Career Counselling by ADL Staff
- CV Writing Help, Tips and Advice
There are no hidden extras
Career Opportunities
FAQ - RHS Theory Qualifications
GENERALÂ
If you require further details about any of the RHS industry recognised qualifications please, call one of our friendly RHS Course Advisors on +44 (0)1227 789 649 or email: [email protected]
Q:Â When can I Enrol/Start My RHS Course With ADL?
A: Anytime, Anywhere. There are no enrolment deadlines.
Q:Â I live Overseas. Can I Study From Overseas?
A: You can study any of the RHS theory qualifications overseas. All courses are offered in English. You will need to email RHS Qualifications direct to arrange sitting for your examination overseas.
Q: Is There a Time Limit for Completing an RHS Qualification?
A: At present there are no time limits. However, RHS is contemplating in the future, the introduction of course time-lines.
Q:Â Are There Any Entry Requirements (Pre-Requisites)?
A:Â The RHS Theory courses do not require prerequisites, previous experience or any knowledge of horticulture. You just need passion for all things horticulture.
Q: What Course Should I Start With First? I Am New To RHS Qualifications.
A: We highly recommend that you start with Level 2 – Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance.
Q:Â What Does ADL Course Material Include?
A:Â Includes Power Point Presentations, Videos and written course lessons.
RHS EXAMS
Q:Â When Do Exams Take Place?
A: Exams are held on fixed dates in February and June of each year. You should register as a candidate at least 3 months before these dates, so please do not leave exam registration to the last minute
Q:Â Where Do I Take My Exams?
A:Â UK: You take the exams at the RHS Wisley Centre, located between Cobham and Ripley in Surrey or at other authorised RHS centres around the UK.
Overseas: please email RHS qualifications direct for centre information.
Q:Â Exam Pass Marks?
A:  Module – pass 50%.  Commendation 70%.
Qualification:Â 50% pass for all modules.
Commendation awarded for all modules.
Each question carries a value of 10 marks.
Q: I’m Not Happy With My Exam Results?
A:Â You have the opportunity to re-sit your exam at the next opportunity.
There are no restrictions on the number of re-sits you can take. The highest mark you achieve will remain.,