The UCD School of Biology and Environmental Science in collaboration with the National Biodiversity Data Centre and with support from the Heritage Council will deliver a new one year course: ‘Certificate in Biological Recording and Identification’. It is the first university certificate in biological recording and identification in Ireland and is open to anyone who wishes to develop or hone their species identification skills and engage in biological recording.
The course would be ideal for staff of NGOs and the general public, especially those who are retired, but is also highly relevant to consultants, teachers and other professionals who wish to enhance existing skills and achieve university certification.
The course comprises three modules:
– 1) Approaches to biological recording for a range of taxa, the various types of data that can be collected and how they can be managed. Current initiatives in biological recording are outlined and students are given instruction in how to record data in a scientifically acceptable manner including use of appropriate computer software.
– 2)Classification and identification of a range of biological groups and terrestrial and freshwater sampling techniques. (Credit will be given for identification workshops taken at the Data Centre)
– 3)Individual project on a selected group of organisms – identification, field recording and written report.
The course will commence in January 2014 with the taught modules taking place on Friday mornings (8 or 9 mornings from Jan to May). The project work will take place over the summer months.
The fee for the course is €2,000 however bursaries from the Heritage Council may be awarded, on application, to cover part of this fee.
This is a Level 7 course and applicants should hold a Leaving Certificate or equivalent or have other relevant experience. Applications can be made online at htt://www.ucd.ie/apply or through Dr Mary Kelly-Quinn: mary.kelly-quinn@ucd.ie. Further information can be obtained from Dr Mary Kelly-Quinn.
