Biodiversity around my corner hidden in history – archival and current data in nature-based observations

The aim of the course is to familiarise participants with the database of specimens and field observations of plants, animals and fungi from collections stored at the Faculty of Biology of the Adam Mickiewicz University. This database is a source of access to unique natural collections, where physical collections, previously available only at the Faculty of Biology of the Adam Mickiewicz University, have been scanned and made available in digital form. In addition, course participants will learn what tools to use for spatial or statistical analysis and how to use a mobile application for collecting data in the field, cooperating with the AMUNATCOLL IT system.

The course is intended for:

• nature teachers and educators,
• pupils and students,
• nature conservation practitioners,
• nature enthusiasts.

The basic level course consists of four thematic modules conducted in the "at your own pace" mode.

The course uses instruction in the form of a presentation, film and textbook.

ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

Anyone can take the course, but basic computer skills are required.

COURSE OBJECTIVES

Thanks to the course, you will:

• Discover the diversity of specimens and observations of plants, animals, and fungi stored in the AMUNATCOLL IT database.
• Learn how to search data resources using various criteria, such as specimens and species in a selected municipality or within a custom-drawn area on a map.
• Use your private workspace on the AMUNATCOLL IT portal to apply spatial and statistical analysis tools to selected specimens.
• Learn how to collect your own field observations of plants, animals, and fungi and analyze this data within your portal account.
• Realize the vast research potential hidden in natural history collections.

TOPICS COVERED

Introduction 

In the module you will find general information about archival natural history collections, course structure, credit requirements and contact details of the course authors.

Module 1: Discover the AMUNATCOLL IT System

The module presents information about the Amunatcoll project and system.

Module 2: Exploring Specimens in the AMUNATCOLL IT System

In this module, you will explore the search tools available in the AMUNATCOLL IT system and learn how to create advanced searches based on various criteria, including spatial and logical filters.

Module 3: How can AMUNATCOLL IT help us in biodiversity research?

In this module, you will learn how to use historical nature data to deepen your knowledge of biodiversity in the studied area. You will also discover the definition of biodiversity and its threats. Additionally, you will explore the issue of spatial accuracy in the location of specimen sites and species observations in our database.

Module 4: Not enough archival data in our area?

In this module, you will get to know the AMUNATCOLL mobile app, which allows you to independently collect field observations or specimens and analyze them spatially and statistically on your AMUNATCOLL IT portal account. Additionally, you will learn how to add photos and voice notes to your own observations using the mobile app.

Summary

In this module you will find two parts: a final test with closed questions, with one correct answer, and a short summary of the course with a description of the new skills you have acquired during the course.

CONDITIONS FOR PASSING

To pass the course, you must obtain at least 51% correct answers to all questions in the course and final test. The course contains a total of 8 control questions (modules 2 and 3). Each correct answer is worth 1 point, and you can try the exercises 2 times. Additionally, in module 2, you will find a discussion exercise, which is optional and not graded.

CONDITIONS FOR RECEIVING A CERTIFICATE OF COURSE COMPLETION

You will receive a certificate of course completion if you achieve at least 51% of the total points from the exercises and the final test. To claim it, click the "Finish course" button located in the final unit of the course. A screen will appear with information about your result and a certificate available for download.

COURSE STAFF

mgr inż. Katarzyna Słupecka

Biological Spatial Information Laboratory
Faculty of Biology
Adam Mickiewicz University

Geographical Information System (GIS) Specialist at the Biological Spatial Information Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University. The author has experience in geotagging techniques, mapping natural history collections, and creating databases.

dr hab. Maciej Nowak

Biological Spatial Information Laboratory
Faculty of Biology
Adam Mickiewicz University

Research and Teaching Staff member at the Department of Systematic and Environmental Botany, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, Head of the Biological Spatial Information Laboratory, Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University, and Associate Researcher at the Médiations Laboratory, Sorbonne University, Paris.

mgr Krystian Florkowski

Biodiveristy Digitization Laboratory
Faculty of Biology
Adam Mickiewicz University

Specialist in the digitization of natural history collections at the Faculty of Biology, Adam Mickiewicz University. The author has experience in environmental monitoring of plants, geotagging techniques, and database creation and management.