ENV403C

Interdisciplinary team research

Dr Peter Cock

6 or 12 points -2 hours per week -First semester -Clayton -Prerequisites: None -12-point option for pre-1998 students

Objectives ENV403C will introduce candidates to interdisciplinary team research by providing relevant guidelines, techniques and working experience through which participants will have the opportunity to gain a broad appreciation of the methods and dynamics of interdisciplinary research. Itshould enable participants to formulate clear research aims, objectives and a sound methodological strategy; adapt research design to the practical constraints affecting research project performance; observe and analyse the effect of personal and social interactions experienced during the research process, in relation to research design, organisation, and output; and to produce a well written interdisciplinary report.

Synopsis This is a core subject for both graduate diploma (ENV403C) and masters candidates (ENV503C) in environmental science. It provides an intensive apprenticeship in the various facets of a team-based approach to environmental research. It aims to produce a cohesive, integrative perspective in the investigation of multi-dimensional environmental issues. This research is strictly time tabled and is undertaken by a self selected team of three to five people on a topic chosen by them. The unit concludes with an extensive review of the project experience.

Assessment (6 points) Research brief (400 words): 10% -Final report (3000 words): 60% -Team dynamics report (1000 words): 20% -Participation: 10%
Assessment (12 points) Brief (400 words): 10% -Individual review (300 words): Pass/fail only -Preliminary project report (3000 words): 12% -Preliminary group dynamics report (1000 words): 6% -Final report (3000 words): 50% -Group dynamics report (1000 words): 12% -Overall assessment 10%

Prescribed texts

GOAl/QPC The team memory jogger USA, 1996

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