Course content

The course provides a theoretical background for the methods used for analysis of species-gradient relationships. Ordination and constrained ordination methods are particularly emphasised, and an introduction to geostatistical methods (methods for analysis of spatial structure) is given. Theory is accompanied by practicals. The participants are encouraged to bring their own data.

Learning outcome

To give the participants sufficient knowledge of gradient analysis techniques to enable them to understand and critically evaluate methodlogical usage in published papers, and to be able to analyse own data.

Admission

PhD candidates from the University of Oslo should apply for classes and register for examinations through Studentweb.

If a course has limited intake capacity, priority will be given to PhD candidates who follow an individual education plan where this particular course is included. Some national researchers’ schools may have specific rules for ranking applicants for courses with limited intake capacity.

PhD candidates who have been admitted to another higher education institution must apply for a position as a visiting student within a given deadline.

The courses BIO4021 and BIO9021 have common admission. Applicants are ranked by the following criteria:
1. PhD students and master students at the MN faculty who have the course as part of the approved curriculum.
2. Other PhD students and visiting PhD students.
3. Students with admission to single courses on master’s level and exchange students
4. Applicants are ranked by credits in each group; all applicants within 1st rank before applicants in 2nd etc. If admission is limited to a fixed number of participants, admission will be decided by drawing lots for students who are ranked equally

Prerequisites

Recommended previous knowledge

Mandatory courses in the biology bachelor programme, especially BIO2150 – Biostatistics and Study Design (discontinued), or corresponing basic knowledge of biostatistics. Practical experience with R statitical software is an advantage.

Overlapping courses