Ecological Proficiencies

From EIANZ Wiki

Contents 1 SPECIFIC SKILLS THAT CHARACTERISE A PROFICIENT ECOLOGIST 1.1 Professional Practice 1.1.1 1. Plan & engage in continuous learning (general) 1.1.2 2. Use appropriate information technology and techniques 1.2 Environmental Awareness 1.2.1 3. Understand envtl values, current principles and frameworks 1.3 Analysis and Assessment 1.3.1 4. Identify impact sources, use appropriate environmental tools/ techniques/methods, and compile relevant information 1.3.2 5. Analyse data, assess its reliability & accuracy, interpret and present 1.4 Environmental Policy and Planning 1.4.1 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

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.