Discovering Bryophytes – 07/09/2022

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This beginner online course will introduce you to the complex world of mosses, liverworts and hornworts, collectively known as bryophytes.

Have you ever wondered what makes up the bright green carpets on rocks and trees? If you take a closer look, a diverse and prehistoric world is revealed. With over half of all European Bryophyte species present in the UK there is so much to explore!

This course is a gentle introduction to bryophytes, which can be quite a complicated group to first begin with. The course covers their biology, ecology and where you can find them. There are plenty of opportunities for you to get outside and put your newfound knowledge into practice, alongside guidance from an expert tutor and other learners. The course is at a beginner level due to the nature of this group and is a great place to start for those with a botanical interest who are thinking about taking their first steps into the world of Bryophytes.

This is a 4-week online course covering 4 topics, for which you will complete a variety of self-led online resources and activities. Each topic is then concluded with either an interactive Zoom workshop or marked assignment to complement the online content. Time commitment is approximately 2-3 hours a week and an E-certificate is provided upon completion. Understand how our online courses are delivered.

Who Should Attend?

Nature enthusiasts, Students, Rangers, Early career ecologists.

Knowledge Level

Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following webpage: Framework and Course Level Descriptors

Prior Knowledge

Existing knowledge and understanding of basic plant terminology would be beneficial for this course.

Recommended Devices

It is recommended that you access your course through a PC or laptop. Please be aware that there will be reduced functionality if you decide to access the course through a tablet or smartphone. The Field Studies Council is unable to email content directly to you.

What is covered in this course?

• • What are Bryophytes?
  • Bryophyte Biology
  • Bryophyte Ecology
  • Finding Bryophytes in their Natural Environment

Please note that this is NOT a species identification course

By the end of the course, you will be able to:

• • Describe which groups of organisms are classified as bryophytes and what makes them different from all other plants
  • Understand the basics of bryophyte lifecycles and reproductive strategies and structures
  • Describe bryophyte habitats and their environmental conditions
  • Recognise groups of common bryophytes in their natural environments
  • Share this knowledge with friends, family and fellow volunteers.

This is a training course from the Field Studies Council, including online course materials, expert tuition and a flexible learning style. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning about bryophytes with further relevant courses, or branch out into other areas of the plant kingdom. The Field Studies Council offers both online and in person courses, so you can choose the learning style that suits you best.

Please note that bookings will close at 9 am on Friday 2nd September to allow for all participants to be enrolled to the online platform – booking will not be taken after this time.*

* Bookings will close sooner if course capacity is reached

The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our online portal gives you time to study at your own pace and fit the lessons around your own schedule.

• • See the ‘Example Timetable’ and ‘What’s Included’ sections below for more information about this course.
  • Each individual needs to place their own order to ensure we can sign you up to the learning platform and give you access to resources.
  • If you have any questions about our online courses please check our Frequently Asked Questions first
  • If your question is still not answered, email [email protected]

Group Bookings Made Easy

If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses.

• • Discounted rates
  • Privately run courses for your group
  • Bespoke courses developed specifically for your needs

Click here to find out more!

Sorry this course has ended