GES3880

Human Evolution and Environment ( 6 points, SCA Band 1, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: John Grindrod

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (Flexible)

Synopsis: The evolution of humans in Africa from hominid precursors to the global spread of early humans and modern hunter-gatherer people. A definition of humans based on human ecology and characteristics that set us apart from other animals. Archaeological evidence for increasing complexity of lifeways through time. The arrival and environmental significance of earliest people in the Australia-Pacific region. Development of Australian hunter-gatherer societies in their palaeo-environmental, archaeological, and social contexts. Intensive field-based format provides opportunity for first-hand assessment of ancient Aboriginal art sites, and an understanding of modern Aboriginal perspectives of culture.

Assessment: Essay (1500 words): 30% + Field report: 70%

Prerequisites: Second-year geography or permission