The Botanical Society of Britain and Ireland run Field Identification Skills Certificate (FISC) is a standard test that determines your botanical skill level on a scale from 1 (beginner) to 5 (professional) with 6 being awarded in exceptional cases.
They are recognised within the ecological and botanical industry as the standard tool for assessing botanical survey skills.
Note: this is a MOCK FISC, any level indicated are guidance as to your potential FISC level, but this level can only awarded when undertaking a real FISC examination. It is not intended that any MOCK FISC level achieved during the day will be used for anything other than guidance.
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The aim of the FISC is to measure botanical skills in real-life situations. FISC aims is to make people less fearful of being assessed. Evidence shows that there is no-one who can identify all plants correctly, so you do not need to worry that you might not be perfect.
This MOCK FISC is a chance to practice being in the environment of a FISC, with information given on what to expect on a real FISC, how best to undertake a FISC and, advice on how to work on improving/maintaining your level.
The morning will start with an Introduction to FISCs, answering many questions you may have, plus the opportunity to ask more as they arise.
This course is perfect for those who feel trepidation about taking ’exams’ or tests, are not sure if a FISC is right for them, and/or would like to work on improving their current FISC levels.
The day also offers a chance to undertake shortened versions of the laboratory (15 instead of 30 specimens) and field tests. Afterwards time will be taken to mark your papers as a group, and feedback given (as a group or individually depending on content).
By the end of the day, participants will feel more comfortable in taking a real FISC, have knowledge on what to expect during the FISC event, and understand how they can gain as high a score as they are able.
More details on FISCs are available on the BSBI FISC webpage, including the FISC Booklet which answers in detail many of the questions you may have on FISCs.
Topics covered in the introduction
What is a FISC
Who should take a FISC
Why the need for FISCs
FISC development and the different roles within FISCs
What to expect on the day
What to bring on the day
The different elements of the FISC test
FISC marking and your final FISC score
Life after a FISC
Tutor
The course will be led by Arvensis Ecology and Field Studies Council staff
Example Timetable
Timetable (provisional):
- 10:00-10:15 Arrival and Introduction to the day
- 10:15-11:30 Presentation and discussion on FISCs
- 11:30-11:45 Break
- 11:45-12:35 MOCK Lab Tests
- 12:35-13:00 Marking and Feedback of Mock Lab Test
- 13:00-13:45 Lunch break
- 13:45-14:00 Travel to field site
- 14:00-15:30 MOCK Field Test
- 15:30-15:45 Return to field centre
- 16:00-16:15 Break
- 16:15-17:30 Marking and Feedback of Mock Field Test, combined scores and final MOCK FISC results.
- 17:30 Summary of the day and depart
Journey times to/from site will vary so these timings are provisional
What's Included
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Expert Tuition -
In Course Transport
Opportunities to attend this course
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Fri 06, June 2025 10:00 - 17:30
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Fri 13, June 2025 10:00 - 17:30
