Monash University Handbook 2011 Undergraduate - Unit

Refer to the specific census and withdrawal dates for the semester(s) in which this unit is offered.

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%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Gerry Rayner

Contact hours

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