Certification for Ecologists
From EIANZ Wiki
Contents |
Background Information
Consultation on Eligibility Criteria in New Zealand
The Ecological Society of America Certification Scheme (designed for Academics)
Some Dangers for Ecology on the Way to Becoming a Profession
Introduction and Objectives
At the EIANZ Annual Conference on 20 October 2009, a workshop was run on the development of standards for ecologists. The aim of the workshop was to produce a set of Competency Criteria, that could be used to identify candidates for certification. This was to be done in two phases:
1. Identification of skills and knowledge that characterise an ecologist (as opposed to any other discipline); and
2. Identification of Specific, Measurable, Achievable and Realistic (SMAR) measurement criteria that could be used to assess skills and knowledge.
A framework for identifying proficiencies was created by EnviroPartners, as research into a possible STEP program under CEnvP. This usefully identifies a draft set of 23 Environmental Proficiencies and the skill and knowledge that a practitioner would need to demonstrate their proficiency under these headings. Proficiencies that specifically relate to ecologists are identified below. Anyone applying for Ecological Certification would need to be able to demonstrate that they have these proficiencies.
Ecological Certification is reserved for practitioners that can demonstrate a very high level of specialist competency in this particular field. All other practitioners, who may not themselves be ecologists, or who do not yet meet the full requirements for written eligibility, can still be generally certified.
SPECIFIC SKILLS THAT CHARACTERISE A PROFICIENT ECOLOGIST
Professional Practice
1. Plan & engage in continuous learning (general)
- Does voluntary field work / field time
- Attends identification workshops or short courses related to ecology.
- Continues specialised skill development throughout career.
- Broadens skill base throughout career.
2. Use appropriate information technology and techniques
- Is proficient in the use, setup and maintenance of survey equipment including GPS.
Environmental Awareness
3. Understand envtl values, current principles and frameworks
- Is able to define ecological terms such as biodiversity, resilience, habitat etc.
- Has an intrinsic regard for the environment and wildlife.
- Understands the cultural context of ecology i.e. why are things particularly important?
- Understands how ecology sits within Ecologically Sustainable Development.
- Understands key principles of ecological theory e.g.:
- Source-sink models
- Population and community ecology
Analysis and Assessment
4. Identify impact sources, use appropriate environmental tools/ techniques/methods, and compile relevant information
- Has a 'connection' with given locations e.g. observation skills, knowledge and experience of particular geographic areas.
- Ability to develop statistically rigorous survey, impact and monitoring programs
- Has a robust understanding of survey techniques, including:
- The ability to critique techniques and select those that are appropriate;
- The ability to design surveys; and
- An awareness of methodological bias and limitations.
- Demonstrates an appropriate skill level and knowledge in relation to their chosen specialist area.
5. Analyse data, assess its reliability & accuracy, interpret and present
- Has a technical ability to manage data, analyse data and use appropriate statistical techniques.
- Knows how to interpret ecological data to reveal trends, and to establish positions and judgement about what this means.
- Knows the difference between reporting facts and making an interpretation.
- Understands the limitations of uncertainty in ecology e.g. there can be no proof, and understands how to treat this uncertainty.
- Demonstrates capability in interpretation of the reliability and accuracy of data.
- Can present findings in a graphical, targeted, oral, verbal, written and visual way.
- Understands the relationship between ecology and risk assessment.
- Understands the various types of qualitative and quantitative 'models' that are used in making ecological predictions.
Environmental Policy and Planning
6. Plan, implement, evaluate and improve systems, policies and procedures / 20. Understand, assess conformance to and design regulatory frameworks, accountabilities and standards for policies & activities
- Knows or knows how to find out about laws, guidelines and policy.
- Has a working knowledge of international laws and conventions (e.g. ramsar, CBD).
- Is up to date with ecological best practice.
- Has a broad understanding of ecology in environmental planning and assessment.
- Understands ecological principles in a way that will enable policy and procedure development.
- Is familiar with ecological impact assessment principles and practice.
- Is able to prepare terms of reference, procedures, reports and manage / monitor impact and risk assessments.
CRITERIA FOR ECOLOGICAL CERTIFICATION
The CEnvP board have requested the development of criteria for an Ecology Certification under CEnvP. As with the proposed Impact Assessment certification, this requires a level of excellence beyond generic CEnvP, including a minimum of 10 years professional work out of 15 years in the industry. The criteria are addressed primarily by written eligibility. For those who appear eligible to apply, an interview process takes place, then the candidate is expected to maintain their skills through continued professional development.
The Ecology Certification recognises two 'types' of ecologist. For the purpose of certification, these are not differentiated. However, candidates are expected to apply based on their specific skills / role within the ecological community and certification will be limited to these.
Table 1: Assessment Criteria
| | General | Field Ecologists (Technical) | Managerial ecologists / EcIA (Generalist) |
| Written Eligibiity |
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| Interview |
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| Continued Professional Development |
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