Key facts
UNE unit code: ZOOL526
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
The field of animal behaviour has a long history of discovery and innovation, with core principles that are relevant across many biological disciplines. This unit explores the field through an evolutionary framework, focusing on the unifying principles that govern the extraordinary diversity of natural behaviour around us.
You will be introduced to the major challenges faced by animals throughout their lives, with an emphasis on the common factors that shape behaviour across taxa.
You will build in-depth knowledge of the ways in which animals navigate their environments, find mates, avoid predators and find food.
With theoretical and practical focused training in observing animal behaviour, you will have opportunities to put your skills into practice with an independent research project targeting your species of choice.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers all practical/laboratory/tutorial activities as essential to student learning. Attendance and participation in all practical/laboratory/tutorial classes (sessions) is mandatory - exemptions will not be granted without supporting evidence.
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- present an advanced and integrated understanding relevent to traditional approaches to the study of animal behaviour through to modern methodology;
- discuss the broad principles underpinning animal behaviour across animal taxa;
- apply these principles at an advanced level to develop and test a hypothesis concerning observed behaviour in the field;
- provide expert, specialised cognitive skills as a team member on animal behaviour projects; and explain at an advanced level their project findings and implications in both written and oral formats; and
- demonstrate the ability to undertake research and apply established theories to a body of knowledge or practice this will also involve critically analysing, reflecting on synthesizing complex information, problems, concepts and theories.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Final Examination - Assurance Task | Yes | 40% | All offerings | There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
| Major Project Report | Yes | 35% | All offerings | No. Words: 2500 |
| Practical | Yes | All offerings | The School of Environmental and Rural Science considers all practical/laboratory/tutorial activities as essential to student learning. Attendance and participation in all practical/laboratory/tutorial classes (sessions) is mandatory - exemptions will not be granted without supporting evidence. | |
| Practical Report - Waterbirds | No | 15% | All offerings | No. Words: 1750 |
| Project Oral Exam - Assurance Task | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Approximately 5 minute oral exam asking questions around major project. The oral exam will be offered face-to-face or online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. To pass this unit, you must achieve at least 50% in this task, and meet all other passing requirements in the unit. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Recommended material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Measuring Behaviour: An Introductory Guide
ISBN: 9781108745727
Bateson, M. and Martin, P., Cambridge University Press 4th ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Animal Behavior
ISBN: 9780128195581
Breed, M.D. and Moore, J., Academic Press 3rd ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
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