88267 - Animal Adaptation to Climate Change

Learning outcomes

At the end of the course students will demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the physiological mechanisms (at the molecular, cellular and systemic levels) through which animals - including humans - can adapt to changes in temperature, pH, osmolarity, water scarcity, etc. in the surrounding environment. On the other hand, students will know the limits of adaptation, thus being able to evaluate the risks related to climate changes. Students will have the ability to integrate knowledge and formulate hypothesis, and clearly communicate their achievements.

Course contents

The final examination wants to evaluate that students met the teaching objectives: know the principles of homeostasis and the physiological mechanisms through which animals adapt to climate changes and the strategies for coping with environmental changes. The exam (written) deals with 3 open questions (2 hours in total) on different topics: students will be asked to answer in a pertinent and synthetic manner, eventually using sketches and drawings. The evaluation will focus on: - scientific content; - precision of the scientific language; - ability to logically organize arguments.

The exam evaluation mode will be explained in detail during the first lesson of the course. Many lessons will contain clear moments of training for the evaluation mode.

AI can be a useful tool to support individual study with in-depth analysis, summaries, and self-assessment pathways. With regard to the assessment of learning, during the in-person exam the use of AI is prohibited. Any use constitutes a violation of academic integrity.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Readings/Bibliography

Scientific papers and reviews.
Textbook: Environmental Physiology of Animals. Ed Blackwell. Willmer, Stone and Johnston

Teaching methods

Frontal lessons

Assessment methods

The final examination wants to evaluate that students met the teaching objectives: know the principles of homeostasis and the physiological mechanisms through which animals adapt to climate changes and the strategies for coping with environmental changes. The exam (written) deals with 3 open questions (2 hours in total) on different topics: students will be asked to answer in a pertinent and synthetic manner, eventually using sketches and drawings.

Students with learning disorders and\or temporary or permanent disabilities: please, contact the office responsible (https://site.unibo.it/studenti-con-disabilita-e-dsa/en/for-students ) as soon as possible so that they can propose acceptable adjustments. The request for adaptation must be submitted in advance (15 days before the exam date) to the lecturer, who will assess the appropriateness of the adjustments, taking into account the teaching objectives.

Teaching tools

Power point slides; scientific papers and reviews

Office hours

See the website of Silvia Franzellitti