BIO1042

Environmental biology ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Associate Professor Gordon Sanson, Dr Gerry Rayner

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: A study of the biosphere, environmental conditions and their effects on animals, plants and communities; responses of organisms to environmental conditions; interactions between plants and animals; environmental genetics and microbiology; management of biological resources; and an introduction to ecology and the impact of humans on the environment. As for BIO1011 the unit is structured to encourage self-paced learning with considerable feedback on individual performance.

Objectives: On completion of this unit, students will understand how humans interact with their biological environment; appreciate the diversity of plants, animals and their habitats; develop skills to assess the biological health of the environment; appreciate the special multidisciplinary nature of research in environmental biology; have developed skills to carry out and write up a research project; and will have skills in analysis and the presentation of quantitative information in environmental biology.

Assessment: Examinations (2.5 hours): 40% + Practical work: 30% + Essay: 10% + Miniquizzes: 20%

Contact Hours: Two 1-hour lectures and one 3-hour practical (or tutorial equivalent) per week